The "Kymyzmuryndyk-2026" cultural and sports festival, aimed at promoting national traditions and cultural heritage, took place in the Karkara tract of Almaty Region. This year, the landmark event, held for the fifth time, was dedicated to the 368th anniversary of Almerek Zhanshikuly.
This large-scale event aimed to revive the traditions of the Kazakh people, promote national values, and develop the region's tourism potential. The festival attracted thousands of guests from various regions of Kazakhstan and abroad.
Kymyzmuryndyk is an ancient Kazakh tradition associated with the first preparation of kumys (a fermented milk drink) after moving to summer pastures. After the mares had been milked and the first kumys was ready, it was not consumed within the family. Residents of the village would gather, bring out a common saba (a bowl of milk), receive the blessing of the elders, and only then share the drink at the communal dastarkhan (table). This tradition symbolizes hospitality, unity, and the continuity of generations.
The festival has previously been held four times at the Karkara tract. Last year, over 8,000 guests attended the event, 40 yurts were erected, and over 250 representatives of small and medium businesses were involved.
This year, organizers erected over 80 yurts on the festival grounds. The program included national games and traditional sports, including horse racing, Kazakh folk dance, Kazakh folk dance, tenge іlu, zhamby atu, and ram raising. Guests also enjoyed a show by the Topzhargan ethno-art center, productions by the Tolagai creative center, and a concert featuring renowned artists. The festival concluded that cultural projects such as "Kymyzmuryndyk" play an important role in strengthening national identity, popularizing traditions, and promoting Kazakhstan's rich cultural heritage.