Russia's Arctic Reindeer Herders Gather for Annual Festival
All through April, indigenous nomadic communities across Russia’s Far North are celebrating one of the most important festivities of the year: the Reindeer Herders' Festival.
Observed annually for nearly 70 years, the festival gives nomadic herders a chance to see their extended family and friends, compete in traditional indigenous games and showcase centuries-old traditions to curious spectators from across the country.
Here is a closer peek at what the celebrations looked like in Russia’s northern Taimyr Peninsula:
Observed annually for nearly 70 years, the festival gives nomadic herders a chance to see their extended family and friends, compete in traditional indigenous games and showcase centuries-old traditions to curious spectators from across the country.
Here is a closer peek at what the celebrations looked like in Russia’s northern Taimyr Peninsula:
Though spring weather has arrived in most of Russia's regions, daytime temperatures on the Taimyr Peninsula still don't rise above minus 10 degrees Celsius.
Alexander Ryumin / TASS
A traditional reindeer sled racing competition was held in three categories, with male, female and teenage sledders rushing to the finish line of a 12-kilometer race track.
Alexander Ryumin / TASS
Another traditional northern sport requires a herder to throw a reindeer lasso (maut) onto a sled pool (khorei).
Alexander Ryumin / TASS
Only the strongest herders joined in a traditional male reindeer wrestling competition.
Alexander Ryumin / TASS
Both local settlers and visiting nomadic communities competed in the national costume contest.
Alexander Ryumin / TASS
The snowmobile was the most sought-after prize of the festival. Other gifts awarded to participants included tundra life essentials like chain saws, sewing machines and portable generators.
Alexander Ryumin / TASS
All festival-goers were welcome to warm up and try traditional delicacies in one of the chums, a traditional dwelling used by Russia's nomadic herders.
Alexander Ryumin / TASS
