Brussels Hosts Inaugural World Mongols Naadam, Showcasing Mongolian Heritage

Naadam in Brussels

In a historic celebration of cultural unity and national identity, Mongolians from across the globe gathered in Brussels, Belgium, for the First Naadam Festival of the World Mongols. Held on June 28, 2025, at Bois de la Cambre park in the heart of the Belgian capital, this groundbreaking event was organized under the patronage of the President of Mongolia, Khurelsukh Ukhnaa, and marked the largest Mongolian festival ever held in Europe.

The festival brought together over 5,000 Mongolians residing in more than 30 countries, along with more than 10,000 local and international guests, including diplomats, ambassadors, and representatives of the European Union and other global organizations. The event served as a powerful expression of Mongolian cultural diplomacy and unity among the diaspora.

The organization of the Naadam was a joint effort led by the Office of the President, the State National Naadam Festival Organizing Committee, the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, and the Council of Mongolians Abroad NGO, with support from Mongolian embassies, consulates, and diaspora organizations throughout Europe.

The festival’s core competitions featured 128 traditional wrestlers, 60 archers, and 250 knucklebone shooters, representing the “Three Manly Sports” of Mongolian heritage. Each discipline highlighted the athletes’ strength, agility, and cultural pride, and attracted enthusiastic audiences throughout the day.

Beyond the competitions, the festival showcased the richness of Mongolian culture through a wide range of activities and services. Visitors enjoyed authentic Mongolian cuisine, including popular dishes such as khuushuur, while browsing exhibitions of traditional crafts, artworks, and locally produced goods by small and medium-sized enterprises. The festival also offered consular services, social insurance support, and informational booths from Mongolian government agencies, providing essential assistance to citizens living abroad.

The event was designed not only as a celebration, but also as a strategic initiative to preserve and promote Mongolian culture and traditions for future generations, while introducing them to a broader global audience. It aligns with Mongolia’s national “Vision 2050” policy, which emphasizes stronger ties with the diaspora and the international promotion of Mongolian identity.

High-level attendees included ambassadors from countries accredited to the Kingdom of Belgium, diplomatic corps based in Brussels, and representatives from the European Union. Their participation underscored the increasing importance of “Naadam diplomacy”, a form of cultural engagement that Mongolia uses to build international goodwill and enhance bilateral relations.

Adding to the festive atmosphere were performances by Mongolian cultural groups based in Europe, as well as popular artists such as Khishigdalai and Naki, who energized the crowd with their musical sets. The internationally acclaimed band Uukhai delivered a full concert that blended traditional Mongolian instruments with modern rock, captivating both Mongolian and international audiences.

The success of the First World Mongols Naadam Festival signals a new chapter in how Mongolia engages with its global citizens and promotes its cultural legacy abroad. With strong turnout, high-level support, and deep emotional resonance, the event set a benchmark for future international Naadam celebrations. It reaffirmed the strength and resilience of the Mongolian identity across borders.