Tonight we're gonna party like its 1991.

It was great to be here at the end of August right on time for the 32nd anniversary of the establishment of Independent Kyrgyzstan.

From sunset to darkness

A great evening, Ala-too square packed to the rafters with people of all sorts enjoying the warm summer evening and the carnival atmosphere.

The square itself was built in 1984 to celebrate the 60th anniversary of the Soviet Republic of Kirghiz

The Tulip revolution in 2005, saw several weeks of unrest throughout the country, on 24th March over 15,000 people gathered on the square to protest the results of the 2005 parliamentary elections.

During clashes with Police and the army two people were killed and over 100 wounded, but the protestors were successful took control of the square and stormed the White House, causing the country's first president Askar Akayev to shit himself and flee the country into the welcome arms of putin.

Tonight was peaceful.

People Watching

There were plenty of Police in the area, I guess whenever large crowds gather anywhere in the world they are a necessary part of the scenery. I felt comfortable throughout, Bishkek, to me, was not an unsafe city.

The city has a population of over one million and is the most populous city in Kyrgyzstan, it draws people from rural areas in search of employment and opportunities.

Babushka, what stories this face could tell us.

Entertainment takes many different forms, there were many young bloods hanging around engaging in arm wrestling.

The intensity on the faces of the onlookers and the competitors show me that they take this seriously, very seriously

Or if you are inclined live music, Kyrgyz style.

You would probably attract more custom if ya put a smile on your face

Young hearts run free.

But for some folk it was ever so tiring sitting and watching

All the ladies in headscarves, a very old Soviet tradition and a saying that goes something like "a self-respecting woman should not go bareheaded in public"

Patriotic

Darkness has fallen across the land and yes the midnight hour is close at hand. It was time to try and find my way back to the hotel, but as you can see I made it.

Bishkek, right place right time.