MONGOLIA CELEBRATES ITS NAADAM FESTIVAL ON WIMBLEDON COMMON

Every year in July, Mongolians in the UK gather on Wimbledon Common to celebrate Naadam, Mongolia’s national festival. This event coincides with our National Day celebration abroad, making it a significant occasion for the Mongolian community in the UK.

Historical accounts suggest that Chinggis Khan used Naadam to keep his warriors fit and battle-ready. Over time, it evolved into a national festival where the practitioners compete for championships.

Naadam, the grandest festival in Mongolia, takes place every July across the country and features three main competitions: wrestling, horse racing and archery. These events are deeply rooted in Mongolia’s history and culture.

Naadam has a long history in Mongolia, evolving through various historical periods, including the first statehood, the Mongol Empire, revolutions, and modern democracy. Historical accounts suggest that Chinggis Khan used Naadam to keep his warriors fit and battle-ready. Over time, it evolved into a national festival where the practitioners compete for championships.

Beyond sports, Naadam includes traditional music, dance and costumes, showcasing Mongolia's rich cultural heritage. It is an expression of national pride and unity among the Mongolian people and is registered in UNESCO’s list of the Cultural Heritage of Humanity.

As relations between Mongolia and the UK grow stronger, London Naadam is becoming more diverse and a grander event. This year's London Naadam featured a variety of activities, including wrestling, knucklebone shooting, a children’s race, a best traditional costume award and cultural performances. The target archery competition was organised at the Royal Richmond Archery Club.

For the first time, this year’s celebration included a unique multicultural performance. Our friends from India, Trinidad and Tobago and Nigeria joined us to showcase their traditional performances. This kind gesture by diplomatic missions in London exemplifies the support we give each other on our national day celebrations. We hope this will become a cherished tradition.

The event was also graced by many special guests, including colleagues from the UK Foreign Office, diplomatic friends from various embassies and high commissions in London as well as members of the local community.

Naadam in London not only celebrates Mongolia’s rich heritage but also strengthens the bonds between the Mongolian community and their friends in the UK, making it a vibrant and inclusive event for all.