Naadam is the annual festival of the three manly sports. Only one of these, wrestling, is done exclusively by men; archery is done by both sexes and horse racing by children. Held each July, the festival originally celebrated the Communist revolution in 1921, but has become a focus of national pride and partying. Events take place all over the country, in each sum and aimag, for 3 days. In Ulaan Baatar, Naadam is a time to see and be seen, and take in some events at the large stadium near the Byangol River. In smaller places, events are much more informal, and include children dancing, military displays, and a chance to meet the neighbours. In a country which is so vast, and has such a small population, the chance to do some serious socialising doesn't come along very often.

Wrestling is serious business in Mongolia. For the national champion, advancement into politics and business is almost guaranteed, and adulation and pin-up status is certain. The current champion, Bat-Erden, has been a sumo wrestler in Japan, and is now a Member of Parliament. Legend has it that the revealing costumes are to prevent women from taking part, following the long-ago victory of a woman in disguise. Archery is open to women, and as in wrestling, doing well is good for any career.

The horseracing is over open countryside, and is held over open ground. Races are up to 35 kilometres long, and the jockeys are usually children. Training horses for Naadam is highly competitive, with hopefuls being given special diet and training in gers all over the country.