ATraditional dressIndependent states
Ak-kalpak
The white felt hat of Kyrgyz men and a national symbol; its craftsmanship has been UNESCO heritage since 2019, and 5 March is Ak-kalpak Day.
The ak-kalpak is a tall hat sewn from four pieces of white wool felt, with slightly turned-up brims and black embroidered patterns. "Ak" means white and "kalpak" a cap.
Its shape, pattern and colour tell of the wearer's age, lineage and status. Thick felt keeps the head warm in winter, and the brim shades it in summer.
UNESCO inscribed the craftsmanship of making and wearing the ak-kalpak in 2019. Kyrgyzstan celebrates Ak-kalpak Day every 5 March, when the streets fill with people wearing the white hat.
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Updated: October 3, 2026