The playtime music festival, held annually in Mongolia, has evolved into an international festival, making it one of the most anticipated events for music lovers and cultural enthusiasts. It offers a unique blend of music, art, and cultural experiences in Ulaanbaatar, attracting attendees from around the world.
Key Takeaways from Playtime Music Festival
- The Playtime Festival showcases a diverse musical lineup, including rock, pop, electronic, hip-hop, and traditional Mongolian music. The festival traditionally takes place in early July.
- Held at the Mongolian State University of Arts and Culture in Ulaanbaatar, it offers a vibrant and energetic atmosphere.
- The festival has expanded from a two-day event to a three-day event, promoting environmental sustainability and supporting local communities.
This music festival, which takes place in Ulaanbaatar, the capital city, offers a unique blend of music, art, and cultural experiences that attract attendees from all over the world. Here’s everything you need to know about the Playtime Festival.
History and Background
The Playtime Festival was first launched in 2002 and has since grown into Mongolia’s largest and most popular music festival. The festival was founded in 2002 by Natsagdorj ‘George’ Tserendorj.
It was initially conceived as a platform to showcase local talent and provide a space for Mongolian musicians to perform alongside international artists. Over the years, the festival has expanded in both size and scale, attracting bigger crowds and more diverse musical acts.
Musical Lineup
One of the main attractions of the Playtime Festival is its diverse musical lineup. The festival features a wide range of genres, including rock, pop, electronic, hip-hop, and traditional Mongolian music. The diverse lineup of indie acts has played a significant role in shaping the cultural landscape of Mongolia.
This eclectic mix ensures that there is something for everyone, whether you are a fan of contemporary music or interested in exploring Mongolia’s rich musical heritage.
International artists frequently headline the festival, bringing global sounds to the Mongolian audience. Notable acts like ‘The Pains of Being Pure at Heart’, ‘The Fin’, ‘Radio Dept’, and ‘Mono’ have headlined the festival, showcasing its evolution into a prominent event that features both local and global talents, making them some of the key headliners .
Past performers have included well-known bands and solo artists from various countries, providing a unique opportunity for cultural exchange and musical discovery.
Venue and Atmosphere
The festival is held at Gachuurt Village, specifically at Hotel Mongolia, and part of it takes place at the newly introduced playtime field . The venue is known for its spacious outdoor area, which can accommodate thousands of attendees.
A new venue, playtime field, located in Nalaikh, Ulaanbaatar, has also been introduced. This venue can host 30,000 attendees and features sustainable infrastructure, supporting the festival’s commitment to environmental initiatives.
The atmosphere at the Playtime Festival is vibrant and energetic, with colorful light displays and music lovers coming together to celebrate their shared passion.
The open-air setting provides a beautiful backdrop for the performances, with the surrounding mountains adding to the scenic beauty.
The festival grounds are equipped with multiple stages, food and drink stalls, merchandise stands, and art installations, creating a lively and immersive experience.
Cultural Significance
The Playtime Festival is more than just a music event; it is a celebration of Mongolian culture. The festival often includes performances of traditional Mongolian music by nine treasures , featuring instruments like the morin khuur (horsehead fiddle) and throat singing, which are integral to Mongolia’s musical heritage. The festival also plays a crucial role in showcasing Mongolia’s emerging bands and artists.
These performances offer festival-goers a chance to experience the unique sounds and rhythms of Mongolia. The festival aims to establish Ulaanbaatar as a leading music tourism city in Asia.
Additionally, the festival provides a platform for local artists and craftsmen to showcase their work. Attendees can explore various art installations, purchase handmade crafts, and learn about traditional Mongolian arts and crafts. The lineup includes a diverse range of genres, featuring indie, punk and metal music, reflecting the festival’s evolution and cultural significance.
Environmental and Social Initiatives
The Playtime Festival is committed to promoting environmental sustainability and social responsibility. The organizers have implemented various initiatives to reduce the festival’s environmental impact, such as encouraging the use of reusable water bottles, providing recycling stations, and promoting eco-friendly practices among attendees.
Additionally, the festival aims to continue creating a sustainable festival experience by continuously evolving its practices to minimize environmental footprints and enhance the overall experience for both attendees and artists.
Socially, the festival aims to support the local community by providing opportunities for local vendors and artists to participate.
It also partners with various non-profit organizations to raise awareness about important social issues and promote positive change.
Tips for Attendees
Plan Ahead: The Playtime Festival attracts large crowds, so it’s essential to plan your trip in advance. The festival is scheduled for the weekend before Naadam, making it a pivotal time for music lovers. Book your tickets early, arrange accommodations, and familiarize yourself with the festival schedule.
Stay Hydrated: Ulaanbaatar can be quite hot in the summer, so make sure to stay hydrated. Bring a reusable water bottle and take advantage of the water stations provided.
Explore Local Culture: Take some time to explore Ulaanbaatar and its surroundings. Visit local museums, try traditional Mongolian cuisine, and learn about the country’s history and culture.
Be Prepared for Weather Changes: The weather in Mongolia can be unpredictable, so pack accordingly. Bring layers, sunscreen, and rain gear to stay comfortable throughout the festival.
Respect Local Customs: Mongolian culture is rich and diverse. Show respect for local customs and traditions, and be mindful of your behavior, especially in public spaces.
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