We were lucky enough to be in the capital of Kyrgyzstan during their 18th annual independence day celebration on August 31st. This day sees the major cities, Bishkek in particular, erupt in a mass of celebration. There are bazaars selling everything imaginable; games of tug-of-war, arm wrestling, and Kyrgyz-style wrestling in the park; exhibitions of gymnastics, karate, and karaoke; and a big main stage laid out in the center of the city with various musical performances happening all day long.
We wandered about the city the entire day, stopping at food stands for a bite to eat whenever we got hungry and sitting down at a cafe for some drinks once were were thoroughly exhausted. After the fireworks ended around 10:00PM we headed off to the Bacardi Lounge once again and joined the cities younger generations in revelry until the wee hours of the morning. Definitely the best club in Bishkek, despite the higher than average prices.
Pictures have been posted in the gallery.
