Festivals in Kyrgyzstan

Festivals & Events in Kyrgyzstan 2025

The Kyrgyz people express their cultural heritage through a variety of festivals, each providing a distinct insight into their traditions and way of life. These cultural festivals also play a vital role in Kyrgyzstan’s tourism activities. These popular festivals celebrate decorative and applied arts, culinary skills, folklore, felt crafts, bird hunting, and equestrian games. Below, we delve of the most renowned and vibrant festivals in Kyrgyzstan.

Salburun Festival

The Salburun Festival is a unique and exciting cultural event in Kyrgyzstan that celebrates the ancient nomadic hunting traditions of the Kyrgyz people. Held annually in various regions, often in the picturesque settings of Issyk-Kul Lake or Cholpon-Ata, this festival showcases the remarkable skills and techniques used by hunters in the nomadic lifestyle.

The word “Salburun” refers to a traditional form of hunting that combines falconry (golden eagles hunting), archery, and hunting with Taigan dogs, a breed of Kyrgyz hunting hound. Visitors can witness stunning displays of golden eagles soaring through the sky, expertly guided by their handlers, and marvel at the speed and agility of the Taigan dogs as they chase prey.

The Salburun Festival is more than just a celebration of hunting—it is a vibrant display of Kyrgyz culture and heritage. In addition to the thrilling hunting demonstrations, the festival features traditional music, dance, and yurt displays, giving attendees an immersive experience of nomadic life. Local artisans showcase their skills in crafting hunting equipment, felt rugs, and other traditional Kyrgyz items, offering visitors a chance to purchase unique souvenirs.

The Salburun Festival provides an unforgettable experience, combining the natural beauty of the Kyrgyz landscape with the timeless traditions of its people. It’s a must-visit event for those passionate about cultural tourism, eco-tourism, and exploring the rich history of Central Asia.

Jazz Fest Spring

The Bishkek International Jazz Festival, “Jazz_Bishkek_Spring,” is a must-visit cultural highlight that celebrates the universal language of jazz.

Held annually in April, though exact dates for 2025 are yet to be announced, this festival coincides with UNESCO’s International Jazz Day and attracts top musicians from around the globe.

Hosted at the Kyrgyz National Philharmonic Hall, it offers unforgettable performances, master classes, and workshops, showcasing a blend of global jazz traditions and contemporary styles. Previous lineups have included artists from the USA, Switzerland, Turkey, and Kyrgyzstan, making it a premier cultural event in Central Asia.

Plan your visit to Bishkek this spring to experience world-class jazz in a dynamic and inspiring setting. Whether you’re a devoted jazz fan or seeking a unique cultural experience, this festival is the perfect way to enjoy live music and Kyrgyzstan’s vibrant atmosphere.

KolFest Music and Art Festival

The KolFest Festival in Kyrgyzstan is a vibrant cultural and musical event held annually along the beautiful southern shores of Issyk-Kul Lake, one of the largest and most beautiful alpine lakes in the world. This unique festival celebrates the region’s rich artistic heritage, blending traditional Kyrgyz culture with contemporary music, art, and performances. Participants can enjoy live music from local and international artists, indulge in traditional Kyrgyz cuisine, and participate in creative workshops that showcase crafts like felt-making and embroidery. KolFest also offers eco-friendly camping options, making it a favourite destination for eco-conscious travellers seeking a sustainable festival experience in Kyrgyzstan.

Surrounded by the stunning landscapes of the Tien Shan Mountains, the festival offers opportunities for outdoor activities like hiking, swimming, and yoga, ensuring a holistic experience. With its blend of modern creativity and traditional charm, KolFest has become a significant event for travelers looking to explore Issyk-Kul tourism, engage with Kyrgyz culture, and enjoy world-class music in a breathtaking natural setting.

Birds of Prey Festival

The Birds of Prey Festival celebrates golden eagles and falcons, deeply respected creatures in Kyrgyz culture. For centuries, Kyrgyz hunters have captured young birds and raised them to hunt, a practice that once sustained entire communities. These majestic birds, such as golden eagles and falcons, were highly valued and often regarded as family members. Experts in training birds of prey, known as “Bürkütchü” and “Kushchu,” hold a revered place in Kyrgyz tradition.

The Birds of Prey takes place annually at the beginning of August. Set against the stunning backdrop of the Jaichy tented camp on the southern shore of Lake Issyk-Kul, this festival is conveniently located near the village of Kok-Sai, just a four-hour drive from Bishkek.

The festival also highlights Kyrgyz folklore, showcasing vibrant performances of singing and dancing accompanied by traditional music. Bokonbaevo’s folklore group features talented musicians who play the komuz, a three-stringed national instrument, the ooz komuz, a metal mouth harp, and other classic Kyrgyz instruments, bringing the region’s rich cultural heritage to life..

Tengri Music Festival

The Tengri Music Festival is an annual celebration of music and culture held in Bishkek, that brings together artists from Central Asia and beyond. Named after “Tengri,” the ancient Turkic deity of the sky, the festival embodies the spirit of unity, tradition, and artistic expression. The event showcases a diverse lineup of musical genres, including traditional Kyrgyz melodies, modern interpretations of nomadic tunes, and performances by international artists. The festival often features instruments like the komuz, ooz komuz (jaw harp), and kyl kyyak (string instrument), blending ancient sounds with contemporary rhythms to create a captivating musical experience.

Held in the heart of Bishkek, the Tengri Music Festival is a cultural highlight that attracts music lovers and travelers from around the world. Beyond the music, the festival offers a vibrant atmosphere with food stalls, artisan markets, and interactive workshops, providing attendees with a taste of Kyrgyzstan’s rich heritage. The event aims to preserve and promote the musical traditions of the region while fostering collaboration and innovation in the arts. For those seeking an immersive cultural experience in Central Asia, the Tengri Music Festival is a must-visit, combining world-class performances with the warm hospitality and breathtaking scenery of Kyrgyzstan.

Kochkor Fest

The Kochkor Fest in Kyrgyzstan is a vibrant cultural festival held annually in the charming town of Kochkor, a hub of traditional crafts and nomadic heritage. Located in the picturesque Naryn region, Kochkor is famous for its handcrafted felt products, traditional yurt-making, and stunning natural landscapes.

The festival showcases the region’s rich cultural traditions through interactive workshops, live performances, and an array of local food and crafts. Visitors can learn about felt-making, a centuries-old Kyrgyz craft, watch traditional dances and musical performances, and even try their hand at nomadic games. With its unique blend of culture and creativity, Kochkor Fest offers a perfect opportunity to explore Kyrgyzstan’s nomadic lifestyle and connect with the local community.

As a key event in Kyrgyzstan’s cultural tourism calendar, Kochkor Fest attracts travelers interested in authentic and immersive experiences. The festival also serves as a gateway to nearby attractions like Song-Kul Lake and the stunning mountain passes that surround Kochkor.

Beyond the festivities, visitors can explore local bazaars filled with handmade Kyrgyz souvenirs, including carpets, jewelry, and textiles, making it an ideal destination for eco-tourism enthusiasts and those passionate about sustainable travel. With its focus on preserving and celebrating Kyrgyz heritage, Kochkor Fest is an unmissable event for anyone seeking a deeper understanding of this Central Asian gem.

Kyrgyz National Horse Games Festival

The Kyrgyz National Horse Games Festival is one of Kyrgyzstan’s most thrilling and culturally rich events, celebrating the country’s deep-rooted equestrian traditions. Held annually in various regions, including near the picturesque Issyk-Kul Lake, this festival is a grand showcase of Kyrgyz nomadic heritage, where horses are central to the way of life. Visitors can witness exhilarating competitions such as Kok Boru (a traditional game akin to polo played with a goat carcass), Tyiyn Enmei (picking coins from the ground at full gallop), and Er Enish (horseback wrestling). These games highlight the incredible skill, strength, and connection between the riders and their horses, embodying the spirit of Kyrgyz nomadic culture.

Beyond the games, the festival offers a vibrant cultural experience with traditional Kyrgyz music, dance performances, and delicious local cuisine. Guests can also explore handicraft markets featuring felt products, embroidered textiles, and jewelry, providing a deeper appreciation for Kyrgyzstan’s artisanal heritage. Set against the stunning backdrop of the Tien Shan Mountains, the Kyrgyz National Horse Games Festival is an unmissable event for travelers seeking adventure, cultural immersion, and a glimpse into the nomadic lifestyle of Kyrgyzstan. With its blend of history, tradition, and breathtaking landscapes, this festival is a highlight of Kyrgyzstan tourism and a unique opportunity to experience the country’s equestrian legacy.

Jaichy Agrotourism Festival

The Jaichy Agrotourism Festival is an annual event held at the Jaichy Yurt Camp in Kyrgyzstan, typically on the first Saturday of July. In 2024, for instance, it was scheduled for July 6.

This festival offers visitors an immersive experience into traditional Kyrgyz rural life, emphasizing local crafts, farming practices, and cultural heritage. Attendees can expect a variety of activities, including demonstrations of rural crafts, hands-on farming experiences, and insights into the daily life of a Kyrgyz family.

The event is designed to promote agrotourism and provide a platform for cultural exchange, allowing participants to engage directly with the local community and traditions. It’s an excellent opportunity for those interested in sustainable tourism and authentic cultural experiences.