2025 in Lijiang: A year packed with festivals

As the world turns its eyes toward traditional festivals, fueled by the successful World Heritage recognition of Chinese New Year, the calendar quietly flips to 2025. Lijiang, a city where history and modernity converge, warmly invites visitors from around the globe to celebrate its rich tapestry of festivals. From the timeless traditions of the Naxi, Mosuo, and Yi peoples to the vibrant, multicultural celebrations that unite its diverse communities, Lijiang offers a year-long journey of discovery and festivity.

Chinese New Year

In Lijiang, this cherished holiday is celebrated with both familiar customs—like pasting Spring Festival couplets and setting off fireworks—and unique local touches. A grand theatrical performance brings the New Year to life, blending traditional stories with cultural artistry.

Bangbang Fair

As spring approaches, the Bangbang Fair springs to life in places like Jiahe Town, Zhongji Sea, and Zhaoqing Market. This bustling market showcases everything from wooden tools and hand-carved furniture to exquisite embroideries and clay roof cats. It’s not just a place to shop but a platform for artisans to display their craftsmanship and ingenuity.

Lantern Festival

The ancient streets of Lijiang Old Town light up with a breathtaking lantern display. Delicate paper lanterns, adorned with Naxi myths and Dongba script, glow under the night sky. Children giggle as they carry animal-shaped lanterns, while couples stroll hand in hand, basking in the romantic atmosphere.

Sanduo Festival

As the highlight of the Naxi calendar, the Sanduo Festival unfolds beneath the majestic Jade Dragon Snow Mountain. This National Intangible Cultural Heritage event combines grand temple fairs, Naxi ancient music, and Dongba rituals to honor the protector deity Sanduo. Dressed in splendid attire, visitors partake in the lively celebrations, gaining insights into the philosophy and spirituality of the Naxi people.

Stinky Water Festival

Held along riversides in early summer, this playful festival celebrates the refreshing alkaline springs of Lijiang. Locals compete to fetch spring water, brew fragrant tea, and cook delicious rice. The day ends with vibrant dances, as the Lisu, Bai, and Naxi people join hands in celebration, sharing food, laughter, and a dip in natural “steam baths.”

Baba Festival

On the 24th day of the sixth lunar month, the Yi people’s Baba Festival fills Lijiang’s air with the comforting aroma of steamed glutinous rice cakes. These offerings honor ancestors before the festivities erupt into vibrant dancing and singing, showcasing the dynamic spirit of the Yi culture.

Torch Festival

When midsummer arrives, the streets of Lijiang blaze with the fiery Torch Festival, celebrated by the Yi, Bai, and Naxi communities. Towering torches of pinewood light up the night, driving away misfortune and uniting people in spirited dances and music around the flames.

Zhongyuan Festival

During the Zhongyuan Festival, the ancient streets of Lijiang Old Town transform into a dreamy "Lantern Water Town." Countless river lanterns, their gentle candlelight glowing warmly, float along the winding waterways, carrying the heartfelt emotions and memories of those who set them adrift.

Mosuo Zhuanshan Festival

As autumn blankets Lugu Lake, the Mosuo people gather for the Zhuanshan Festival. Pilgrims circle sacred mountains, carrying prayer flags and chanting mantras, seeking blessings for the coming year. The festival is a feast of music, dance, and sports, with events like horseback archery and wrestling, making it a cultural treasure trove for visitors.

Yi Kushi Festival

In December, the Yi people celebrate the Kushi Festival, a time for family reunions and gratitude. For three days, they indulge in traditional feasts, folk games, and artistic displays, embracing their vibrant heritage with joyous abandon.

Lisu Kuoshi Festival

As the year ends, the Lisu people ring in the new year with the Kuoshi Festival. This celebration features daring feats like fire-walking and knife-ladder climbing, along with hearty banquets and communal drinking. Amid the adrenaline and camaraderie, the festival symbolizes renewal and unity, bidding farewell to the old and welcoming the new.

In Lijiang, the festival calendar never truly ends. Whether you’re marveling at lanterns in the spring, dancing by torchlight in summer, savoring rice cakes in autumn, or braving the winter cold for fiery celebrations, there’s always something to experience.

2025 is calling, and Lijiang awaits. Will you join the celebration?

Source: Travel in Lijiang Old Town