Astana’s New Festival Puts Kazakhstan’s Beloved Milk in Spotlight

Kazakshtan’s Astana has launched a large-scale gastronomic festival, dedicated to kumis, the traditional fermented mare’s milk widely regarded as the national drink of the Kazakh people.

More than 30 tons of kumis have been delivered to the capital from across every region of Kazakhstan-marking the largest quantity ever gathered in the country’s history for such an event, The Caspian Post reports via Kazakh media.

The festival, which is being held at the Kazanat Hippodrome, features over 50 kumis producers, each bringing around 300 liters of the beverage. Visitors can sample a variety of kumis recipes, learn about the different methods of preparation, and explore the cultural traditions surrounding its production.

In addition to tastings, the festival program includes live music concerts, folk performances, a crafts fair, a horse exhibition, and authentic Kazakh cuisine.

The initiative aims to revive the cultural heritage of kumis consumption, support local farmers, and promote regional brands.