Europe’s Largest Event Dedicated to Preserving Ancient Traditions
Edited by Anna Popper
Kurultaj – a biennial assembly and meeting of the Hun and Turkic Nations – is organised by the Hungarian Turan Association. This significant cultural gathering returns and will take place between 9-11 August 2024 in Bugac, Hungary, in the legendary Great Plain, about 160 km south of Budapest. This region is renowned for its stunning landscapes, including the largest sand dunes in Europe, and is a key area for Hungarian shepherd culture and equestrian traditions and sports.
Kurultaj celebrates the heritage of Hungarian ancestors and notable figures from steppe nomadic history. It serves as a cultural bridge, uniting Hungarians in the Carpathian Basin and Central Asian peoples who share a common equestrian nomadic heritage.
Since its inception in 2007 in Kazakhstan (first held in Hungary in 2008), the 2024 edition of Kurultaj will feature a rich three-day program, attracting more than 25 related nations and offering over 50 diverse activities showcasing the cultural richness of the Hun-Turkic peoples. Responding to the Turan Association’s invitation, over 100 teams are expected to participate, bringing a vibrant variety and representation of cultures to Bugac. The celebration includes traditional activities such as procession of Avar and Hungarian armoured horsemen, clothing of Hun leaders, combat demonstrations, horse racing, equestrian competitions, archery contest, traditional arts, handicraft display and fair, exhibitions highlighting the Hungarian, Hun and Avar heritage, and folk music programs.
This year’s event promises new and exciting program elements, featuring large-scale scientific exhibitions. Among these is the anthropological and archaeological exhibition “Yurt of the Ancestors”. A highlight will be the world’s largest yurt, the “Yurt of Attila”, with a diameter of over 20 meters, authentically decorated to reflect the era of Attila.
These sensational attractions provide a deeper exploration into the ancient history and traditions of the participating cultures and nations.
During a press conference held at the Matild Hotel Budapest, the main organizers, patrons and sponsors shared numerous insightful details about the upcoming event.
More information on Kurultaj 2024 is available at: www.kurultaj.hu
