Every year, as the warm Mongolian summer rolls around, the Playtime Festival comes to life, offering a captivating blend of music, culture, and sustainability. Since its inception in 2002, this iconic event has been a beacon of entertainment, fostering a green and eco-conscious lifestyle while contributing to Mongolia's sustainable development.
A Summer Tradition For over two decades now, the Playtime Festival has been a highlight of the summer season, drawing crowds from near and far. Held at the Mongolian Castle Recreation Center in the picturesque Gachuurt Village, just a stone's throw from the bustling capital city, Ulaanbaatar, this festival has grown into an annual tradition that celebrates the best of Mongolian and international music and culture.
A Diverse Lineup The festival's reputation as an entertainment powerhouse is well-deserved. Year after year, the Playtime Festival curates a diverse and exciting lineup. Mongolian talent shines with over 150 local artists, while an additional 20 international acts, hailing from the USA, South Korea, China, Spain, Great Britain, Germany, and Russia, bring a global flavor to the stage. Headliners like Cigarettes After Sex (Great Britain), Carsick Cars (China), and Shortparis (Russia) have graced the festival, creating unforgettable moments for attendees. It's not just about the big names; emerging Mongolian stars, including Nisvanis, The Lemons, The Colors, Mohanik, Night Train, and a vibrant array of young DJ artists, ensure that every musical taste is catered to.
A Greener Tomorrow The Playtime Festival is more than just music; it's a platform for positive change. The Playtime Festival's commitment to sustainability is at the forefront of our mission. We aim to introduce the concept of green development by encouraging responsible waste sorting, reduction, and proper reuse. Renewable energy resources power the festival, contributing to a greener and more sustainable approach.
Empowering Youth and Enriching Culture With over 200 dedicated volunteers, the Playtime Festival actively supports youth participation in society's welfare. The PLAYTIME+ program expands every year, offering cultural, personal development, and lifestyle experiences for the youth of the 21st century. From thought-provoking podcasts like Unread to cutting-edge art exhibitions, poetry readings, side-splitting comedies, soulful jazz concerts, serene meditation and yoga sessions, and valuable psychotherapy sessions, the festival offers a comprehensive range of activities for everyone to enjoy and grow from.
Traveling to the Festival Getting to the festival is a breeze. We provide various transportation options, including a specialized free festival bus, Gachuurt-bound public transport, bicycle parking for the health-conscious, and festival-contracted UBCab taxis. Find us at Bayanzurkh district, district 20, Gachuurt village, Ulaanbaatar City.
Accommodation Options If you're wondering where to rest during the festival, we have several choices:
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1.Tent: Experience the unique opportunity to camp right on the festival grounds. A 3-day tent admission allows you to immerse yourself in the festival atmosphere.
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2.VIP Tent: For those seeking a touch of luxury, our VIP tent section offers premium accommodations. Be sure to book early, as space is limited.
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3.Nearby Resorts: There are more than 10 resorts near Mongolian Castle, offering a variety of lodging options for festival goers.
A Festival with a Purpose Our commitment to sustainability extends beyond the festival grounds. Since 2022, we have eliminated private car parking at the festival to reduce our carbon footprint. Waste on-site is sorted into four categories, and food waste is repurposed through composting partnerships with local businesses.
We proudly align our efforts with the United Nations' Sustainable Development Goals. Accessibility is a priority, with festival programs translated for those with hearing difficulties. Gender equality is a focal point, with female directors comprising 70% of festival management positions.
As the summer sun sets on the Mongolian horizon, the Playtime Festival continues to be a beacon of music, culture, and sustainability. Join us next summer as we once again unite under the Mongolian skies, celebrating a tradition that has come to define the season - the Playtime Festival.
All of the above information has been taken from the official website of the Playtime festival.
