Guide: all countries » Kazakhstan » Astana » Traditions and festivals

Colors of Astana - traditions, festivals, mentality and lifestyle

Astana Astana has become the capital of Kazakhstan relatively not long ago – the event took place in 1997. Since that time, The Capital Day, which falls on July 6, has become one of the most popular holidays for locals and guests of the city. As a rule, new cultural and sports complexes, museums and monuments are open on this day. For example, in 2007, a monument dedicated to the legendary warrior, Bogenbay Batyr, appeared in the capital. In the evening, local people come to the main square to enjoy a festive concert, carnival, and other entertainment. The Capital Day is not the only celebration that may be interesting to guests of Astana.
Astana design-hotels for stylish travellers
Astana has many attractive upscale hotels with striking design. King Hotel Astana is situated in the downtown. The lodge is decorated in aristocratic style and features furnishing of wood … Open
The Independence Day is a no less exciting holiday. It falls to December 16. The official day off starts with a solemn wreath-laying ceremony on Revolution Square. This is the way local people salute fighters for independence who died in December 1986. The holiday is full of interesting events. Attractive festive markets, fair trades, dancing performances, and concerts appear on main streets and squares of the capital. The government praises sportsmen and cultural luminaries. Traditionally, grandiose fireworks end the holiday.
Many national holidays have a religious character, so local people strictly follow all ancient traditions on these days. For example, 70 days after the end of Oraza fasting, local people celebrate an important holiday – Qurbani Eid. The name of the holiday literally means “the holiday of sacrifice”. In accordance with an ancient tradition, each family must sacrifice a domestic animal, such as sheep, cow, or a camel, on this day. That is the way local people pay homage to supreme forces. It is believed that everyone, who has participated in the ritual, will have a prosperous year. Copyright www.orangesmile.com
Top places to stay in Astana - most luxurious hotels
Astana has several luxury hotels that will amaze with impeccable service. Ramada Plaza Astana Hotel is in a couple of minutes’ walk from the central park. A luxury hotel occupies a … Open
According to another tradition, each local person must prepare a dasturxon early in the morning. This is a specially decorated table with festive food – guests may come anytime and enjoy it. As a rule, various pastries, fruit, and candies are traditional treats on this day. Hosts only need to prepare tea when guests come. Mosques host service on this day, but only Muslim people are allowed to enter. Tourists are allowed to watch from some distance.
Astana In the end of March, namely, on March 21-22, all people in Central Asia celebrate another important holiday – Nauruz. This is the time when people welcome spring and celebrate the change of seasons with dancing, songs, and delicious food. In Kazakhstan, tourists can see traditional games of the region – aitys and kokpar during this celebration. These medieval traditions are specific only for Nauruz. In Astana, there are always free concerts and food on the main squares of the city.
Old hotels keeping the history of Astana
Some hotels of Astana have old-style interior. Authentic antique furniture and unique works of art were used to furnish Business Hotel. The later occupies a spectacular building with columns … Open
Not all celebrations in the capital city are connected with the history or religion. Starting from 2010, the International Astana Action Film Festival is held in the city in July. This is the only film festival that specializes in the action genre. The structure of the Astana Action Film Festival is also quite unusual because there is no jury to select the best actor or film. It’s a platform for sharing experiences and discovering new talents. All visitors are welcome to come and watch works of young filmmakers or just look at renowned celebrities who regularly visit the event. The festival usually lasts three days, during which visitors can see various performances, watch the red carpet event, meet stars, and much more.
Astana has a special event for foodies and everyone who wants to get acquainted with culinary traditions of Kazakhstan and other countries. Astana Food Festival is an annual event that brings together representatives from more than 100 countries. The popular festival is usually held in Astana Expo venue. The program of the exhibition always includes interesting master classes, workshops, concerts, performances, a special area for kids, and much more to keep guests entertained. The variety of food is also nothing but gorgeous – regional food, street food, high cuisine from renowned chefs, and creative gastronomy.
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National traditions of Kazakhstan

Wedding is one of the key events for every family, so no wonder why weddings are widely celebrated in the country. Many traditions of the past have been alive through centuries. For example, people, whose ancestors were the same family seven generations ago, are not allowed to get married. Because of this, the Kazakhs always keep a record of at least seven generations of their ancestors. In the past, young people married early – as soon as they became 15 years old. In accordance with local beliefs, early marriage prevented young people from reckless and inappropriate decisions. By the steppe law, the bride and groom didn’t see each other until the wedding day, but their parents had to be friends. The tradition of ransom for the bride is still alive even in big megalopolises. … Open

Traditions and festivals in cities around Astana

Ekaterinburg
Local people have one more important characteristic. It is vitally necessary for them to be a part of some important and, above all, common goal. In that case, they feel relevant and, therefore, happy. This is a striking difference of local people compared to many ... Open »
Almaty
The locals are distinguished by hospitability and cordiality. They have many rituals and customs connected with reception of guests. Meat has always been considered the main holiday meal, but lamb occupies a special role. The lamb meat is boiled in large pieces and ... Open »
Islamabad
The capital of Pakistan regularly hosts interesting festivals that appeal not only to local people but also to tourists, many of which arrive in the city in order to visit these wonderful events. Fair trades and exhibitions are also not rare in Islamabad. They are an ... Open »
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