The Kirgiz people are nomads, traveling year-round with their tents and herds of cattle and sheep. They live on plains near rivers in the summer and on sunny mountain slopes during the winter. The square tents are constructed of felt and are fenced with red stakes. Generally, families have three generations living together, with married sons living with their parents. Men herd the horses and cattle, cut grass and do heavy household chores. Women knit carpets, make felt rugs, milk the horses, and tend to the sheep, in addition to raising children, looking after their husbands and in-laws, and tending to the household chores.

The Kirgiz are a brave and hospitable people, paying attention to etiquette and honoring their guests. Kirgiz have many strict social rules, including where one can relieve oneself, how one ought to speak to another and an abhorrence of lying and cursing. For both engagements and weddings, the Kirgiz hold formal ceremonies. Weddings are a time of celebration, providing an opportunity for games, horse-racing, wrestling, singing and dancing. Winners are awarded gifts. Afterward, the bride takes her dowry and goes to live with her new husband.