Colors of Almaty - traditions, festivals, mentality and lifestyle

The local people follow many interesting traditions and customs. For example, during a year they celebrate various entertaining and colorful national holidays, each of which has its own history. Family relations are very important for the Kazakhs, so everything that concerns their relatives is always the most important for them. The elders are always treated with much respect. They also have the final word in the family. Young people talk to the older generation when they seek a wise counsel or need a teaching. The opinion of the head of a family is always true and indisputable. Child’s birth is considered the greatest happiness for the young family. Especially for this occasion a family organizes a big celebration. When a baby makes its first step, it is also considered a great event. On this day the baby’s parents serve a lush table and invite an old man to the house. His task is to cut the ribbons entangling the baby’s feet. It is believed that after such ritual the baby will grow strong and healthy.

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 divided only after it is served on the table. The oldest member of the family is given the right to cut the meat. Thus, a lamb’s head is usually given to the most honored guest, which, in his turn, should share it among the members of the family present at the table. Young unmarried girls usually get cervical vertebrae, and daughter-in-law or son-in-law always get brisket.

New Year or Nowruz is the main and most favorite holiday of the locals. It is celebrated annually on March 22. On this day you will see beautiful yurts installed on the main squares of the city. In these yurts is prepared the main dish of the holiday - "Nowruz kozhe". The New Year's Day is celebrated not just one day, but during the whole month. It is believed that during this period people need to ask an apology from all friends and family members, to forgive all offenders, pay off all debts and make as many good deeds as possible. In order to make the next year successful and happy, the holiday must be happy and large-scale as generosity is sure to be rewarded. Copyright www.orangesmile.com

March 21 is a very special day in Almaty, as far as all the nation celebrates the bright holiday of Nauryz. This event marks the spring equinox and renewal of nature. On this day people dress smartly, visit their relatives and friends. If you happened to make it into Almaty during this celebration, be ready to try the indispensable festive dish - Nauryz-kozha soup. Kazakhs believe that on this celebration you need to fill yourselves with this meal, and then the year will pass in prosperity. Nauryz-kozha is a nourishing rich soup prepared from seven ingredients. Each component of the dish symbolizes one of the seven life principles: growth, happiness, wealth, health, wisdom and protection of the heavens.

Nauryz is generally full of symbols, and as you have noticed already the main number of Nauryz is 7. Locals also invite seven guests, as well as it is necessary to visit seven houses and congratulate the housemasters. During the holiday of Nauryz, there are numerous cultural entertainments held on the streets. You will be able to enjoy the competitions of witty poets, as well as the traditional game of logic called Toguz Kumalak. Directly on the streets, you will see actors who perform theatrical shows and skits. Another ancient tradition of Nauryz celebration is called Altybakan - girls and guys gather together to talk and ride on a swing. In general, Nauryz is a state holiday of Kazakhstan, which is celebrated for three days.