Ulaanbaatar welcomed cultural enthusiasts from across Asia for the "Asia Folk 2024" festival, a vibrant celebration of traditional arts and crafts. From June 14-16, 2024, the capital of Mongolia served as a melting pot of cultural exchange, hosting over 160 talented artists and artisans from ten nations, including China, South Korea, and India.
Organized by the "ArtLar Culture" NGO and supported by the Governor’s Office of the Capital City and the Authority on Arts and Culture, the festival was a testament to international cooperation in preserving and promoting Asian cultural heritage. Small and medium-sized enterprises from Ulaanbaatar’s nine districts proudly showcased their works alongside international participants, creating a dynamic marketplace of creativity and craftsmanship.
The festival's program was rich and diverse, encompassing folk art performances, mesmerizing handicraft exhibitions, and interactive workshops where visitors could learn traditional techniques firsthand. A highlight was the colorful parade featuring participants in traditional costumes, followed by a captivating fashion show that highlighted the fusion of modern and traditional attire.
B. Tsatsral, head of the "ArtLar Culture" NGO and the festival's driving force, emphasized its significance as a platform for cultural exchange and mutual understanding among Asian nations. Initially launched in 2019 as the Asian Folk Art Festival and adapted to online formats during the pandemic years, "Asia Folk 2024" marked a triumphant return to in-person festivities, reaffirming its role as a bridge between diverse cultures.
The festival’s official opening on June 14, 2024, at Sukhbaatar Square was a grand affair, featuring performances that resonated with the spirit of Mongolia’s cultural heritage. Iranian musician Yones Cholamzadeh Alam’s rendition of Mongolian composer J. Mend-Amar's "Melody of the Khuuchir" on the traditional khuuchir instrument captivated the audience, underscoring the festival’s commitment to cultural dialogue through music.
Supported by the Center for Small to Medium Enterprises of the Capital City and the World Association of Folklore Festivals, "Asia Folk 2024" not only celebrated Asia’s rich tapestry of traditions but also fostered collaborations that promise to enrich future editions. As Ulaanbaatar continues to strengthen its cultural ties with Asian cities, the legacy of "Asia Folk 2024" shines brightly as a beacon of cultural diversity and artistic excellence.
