Attractions and Accommodations: “BLUE PEARL ICE FESTIVAL TOUR”
Blue Pearl Ice Festival
The Blue Pearl Ice Festival is a public event held on the ice of Lake Khuvsgul in Khuvsgul Province, Mongolia, during the winter. In 2000, in order to protect Lake Khuvsgul, which Mongolians respectfully call Mother of the Sea, and develop winter tourism, at the initiative of J.Temursukh, who worked as an environmental inspector of the Khuvsgul Specially Protected Area, an Ice Festival was held at a place called "Santyn Uvur" and local residents participated in a race with ten sledges. However, from the following year, in 2001, the scope of the "Ice Festival" expanded and has been celebrated as a tradition to this day and has grown to become an important event for the development of winter tourism in Mongolia. During the Ice Festival, many competitions and events are organized for foreign and domestic tourists. For example, ice skating competitions, cycling and skating competitions, dog sled races, tug-of-war on ice, relay races, father and mother competitions, horse races, performances by artists of the Province musical drama theater, and the traditional Mongolian shamanic ritual The Great Sacrifice of the Sea Mother Fire are held. However, foreign tourists organize events such as the Competition for Tourists entertainment competition, who can sing Mongolian songs well?, food shows, ice sledding, and national costume fashion shows. In order to ensure the safety of citizens and prevent pollution of Khuvsgul Lake, vehicles are parked on dry land and only pedestrians and horse-drawn sleds are organized on the ice. More than twenty thousand citizens participated in the Blue Pearl-2023 ice festival. In addition, more than 270 guests and representatives from eight foreign countries, including Japan, Korea, Germany, and the United States, came to participate. The “Blue Pearl-2025” Ice Festival will be held for 10 days from February 13 to February 23, 2025.
Things to note for travelers and enthusiasts coming to the Ice Festival:
- Dress warmly
- Drive carefully as the roads are slippery
- Do not travel in areas with prohibited signs
- Do not drive on the ice at night
- Do not let young children play on the ice without supervision
Guide and Recommendations for Foreign Tourists About Mongolian Lunar New Year (Tsagaan Sar):
What is Tsagaan Sar?
Tsagaan Sar, the Mongolian Lunar New Year, is one of the most important and widely celebrated holidays in Mongolia. It marks the beginning of a new year based on the lunar calendar, which typically falls between late January and February. It is a time for family reunions, paying respects to elders, and honoring ancestral traditions.
When is Tsagaan Sar in 2025?
In 2025, Tsagaan Sar will start on March 1th. The main celebration usually begins on the evening of the 1th, continuing for around 3 days, with the most significant activities taking place during the first few days.
Key Traditions and Celebrations:
Family Gatherings: Tsagaan Sar is a time for families to come together. On the eve of the New Year, families prepare special dishes and a variety of traditional foods such as boov (a type of pastry), mutton, and airag (fermented mare’s milk).
Respect for Elders: Younger generations visit the elderly, offering them gifts and expressing their respect. This is a time to ask for blessings and seek wisdom from older family members.
Traditional Clothing: During Tsagaan Sar, many people wear their finest traditional attire, known as deel. The clothing is often brightly colored and made from fine materials, making it a vibrant display of Mongolia’s cultural heritage.
Food and Drink: Expect to taste a variety of delicious dishes. The main dishes include mutton, dumplings, and dairy-based products. Airag (fermented mare’s milk) is traditionally drunk during celebrations.
Tips for Tourists:
Respect the Customs: If invited to a Mongolian home during Tsagaan Sar, it’s important to show respect for the elders, offer a small gift (often sweets or fruits), and participate in the tradition of greeting each other by touching foreheads.
Be Prepared for Hospitality: Mongolian people are incredibly hospitable. Expect to be offered food and drink, especially airag (horse milk). It’s a sign of respect to accept and enjoy it, even if you’re not used to the taste.
Expect Changes in Business Hours: Many businesses, including shops and restaurants, may be closed for a few days, so it’s important to plan accordingly.
Experience the Culture: If you’re traveling during Tsagaan Sar, make sure to explore the rich cultural traditions, whether by visiting families, watching traditional performances, or exploring Mongolian cuisine.
Enjoy your visit during this beautiful time of year, and remember to embrace the warmth and generosity of the Mongolian people!