The multi-purpose “Ashgabat” Stadium has hosted a great celebration to mark the country’s national holiday, Independence Day, which the people of Turkmenistan hold most dear. In the evening, Cabinet Deputies Chairman, Mejlis leaders and deputies, honorary elders, heads of the diplomatic missions accredited to our country, ambassadors of Turkmenistan to foreign countries, representatives of public organizations, the media, and the youth gathered to watch the show. The performers lined up to create “ХХVI” in the center of the sports arena. The remarkable date was surrounded by the country’s important symbols and national treasures, which have been a solid foundation for its economic power all these years. Ornaments of unique Turkmen carpets, the rhytons of Nisa, and the sights of magnificent Avaza on the Caspian coast were perfectly showcased at the stadium. Then, children’s and youth dance groups joined the festive celebration. Vigorously whirling around in dance, the youngsters demonstrated various national games. To the rhythmical beat of the drum, stylized images of the capital’s architectural landmarks, including the ones, which have earned a spot in the Guinness World Records, were on display. One of the definite highlights of the festivity was a sparkling performance by dance groups to the song called “Ak Şäherim Aşgabat” that has become a musical symbol of the magnificent white-marble capital – a real gem of the region. Famed Akhalteke horses came to the fore to run on the stadium’s race tracks. The delighted audience, captivated by the beauty and amazing speed of the truly royal horses and the boldness of their riders, performing risky stunts, broke into loud applause. Then dancers entered the arena. Fast-paced music struck up and a spectacular performance with the participation of Turkmen athletes started at the stadium. Our country has declared the people’s health the national wealth. Many sports facilities, built in the country over the past few years, stand as eloquent testimony to this. The Ashgabat Olympic Complex, which is without equal in the region, is highly impressive. A while ago, it hosted the 5th Asian Indoor and Martial Arts Games that proved an enormous success. The national team’s biggest medal haul was a striking demonstration of a high stage of Turkmen sport development. The festivity continued with a dramatic musical composition, reflecting the profundity of patriotic feelings and pride the people of Turkmenistan have for their beloved native country. To the mesmerizing sounds of the dutar, bakhshi (folk performers), who brilliantly play the traditional musical instrument, came on. As soon as they plucked the strings, the crowd at the Ashgabat Stadium was really fascinated by a flowing melody. Then a dance performance was given by performing artists (from all the regions of the country), who succeeded in creating the festive and lively atmosphere of a Turkmen toi (feast). One after another, the best ensembles performed traditional and highly-expressive dances, telling about the changes and reforms ongoing in the country through the medium of dance and music. Concluding the performance, the dancers lined up to form a colorful map of Turkmenistan. The festive event was topped off with the ritual dance, kushtdepdi, celebrating the historical and cultural traditions and the nation’s spiritual experience.