Kazakhstan Welcomes Spring with Nauryznama, a Cultural Celebration Similar to Brazil's Carnival and Germany's Oktoberfest

Kazakhstan is introducing Nauryznama, a fresh and expanded format for celebrating Nauryz, which was first initiated by the president last year, Orda.kz reports citing the Ministry of Culture and Information.

This year, the nationwide celebration begins on March 14 and carries a deeper cultural meaning. Traditionally, Nauryz celebrations lasted at least eight days rather than just one. Nauryznama expands this tradition into a 10-day festival, with each day dedicated to specific themes and traditions:

• Korisu – Amal merekesi: Day of greetings and good wishes
• Qaiyrymdylyq: Day of charity
• Madeniet jane ulttyq salt-dastur: Day of culture and national traditions
• Shanyraq: Family Day
• Ulttyq kiim: National Dress Day
• Zhanaru: Renewal Day
• Ulttyq sport: National Sports Day
• Yntymaq: Unity and Solidarity Day
• Zhyl basy: New Year celebration
• Tazaru: Purification Day

The Ministry aims to elevate Nauryznama into an internationally recognized tourism event similar to Brazil’s Carnival, Japan’s Cherry Blossom Festival, India's Holi, or Germany’s Oktoberfest.

The ten-day format creates a festival atmosphere where tourists can immerse themselves in daily-changing themes—experiencing Kazakhstan’s unique traditions, cuisine, ethnic games, music, crafts, and contemporary art, the Ministry stated.

Over 1,500 events will take place nationwide, including the “Qamazhai” flash mob in Astana, a procession titled “Kimeshekter sherui” in Kokshetau featuring over a thousand women, and a parade of national costumes “Ulttyq kiim - ult beynesi” in Aqtobe, among other vibrant celebrations.

Original Author: Raushan Korzhumbekova