Published on
January 3, 2026
The 2026 Dujiangyan Village Candy Fair kicked off with vibrant festivities on New Year’s Eve in Dujiangyan, Sichuan province. Known for its ancient water conservancy systems, this event immerses visitors in the rich cultural heritage of the region while celebrating the age-old wisdom of water management that has shaped the area for thousands of years.
The fair, which runs from January 1 to 3, 2026, started with a dazzling lantern show, featuring impressive displays inspired by the region’s historic irrigation system and local legends. These large-scale lantern installations portrayed the story of Li Bing, the ancient Sichuan governor responsible for overseeing the construction of the world’s oldest functioning irrigation system. The night sky lit up with vibrant colors, offering a glimpse into the region’s cultural roots and captivating storytelling tradition.
Lantern Shows and Cultural Displays
The opening of the 2026 Dujiangyan Village Candy Fair offered a spectacular introduction to the event. The lantern show took centre stage with towering lantern installations that celebrated the rich history of the Dujiangyan Irrigation System, a marvel of ancient engineering. These lanterns, inspired by local myths and historical tales, transformed the fairground into a glowing spectacle. Visitors were immersed in an unforgettable experience that blended cultural heritage and artistic brilliance.
Beyond the lantern show, the fair features a themed bazaar running until January 3, located in the historic Guanxian Ancient Town. The bazaar showcases a selection of the region’s finest products, including local beverages, teas, liquors, and signature delicacies. Also featured are geographical indication products such as kiwifruit and Chuanxiong (Sichuan lovage rhizome), famous for their distinctive flavors and medicinal properties. The fair offers an opportunity to experience the diverse flavours of Sichuan and discover the creative innovations that continue to thrive in this ancient region.
Interactive Activities and Themed Routes
The Guanxian Ancient Town also hosts a variety of exciting activities designed to engage visitors. Among the attractions is an urban orienteering event with two unique routes: the Ancient Weir Tour and the Guanxian Flavor Trail. Participants can explore the town while collecting stamps from various check-in points via a mini-program. These stamps can then be exchanged for special offers from local merchants, making it a fun and rewarding experience for all ages.
Adding to the excitement, the fair also offers a range of cultural and tourism activities designed to enrich the visitor experience. These include intangible cultural heritage demonstrations, NPC parades, interactive performances, and an exhibition of specialty products from Dujiangyan’s international sister cities. These immersive activities provide deeper insights into the region’s cultural heritage, while also offering a chance to explore local crafts and products that are part of Dujiangyan’s unique identity.
Immersive Ancient-Style Experiences
One of the highlights of the fair is the immersive, ancient-style interactive experience hosted by the Sustaining Water Forever Culture and Creation Industrial Park. Visitors can immerse themselves in the atmosphere of ancient China by interacting with performers dressed in hanfu (traditional Chinese clothing) and animal-head costumes. A parade will take place, allowing visitors to take photos with the performers and experience the traditional attire first-hand.
Additionally, attendees can participate in interactive challenges such as quizzes, talent shows, and tasks along designated routes. Successful participants can earn “silver notes” that can be redeemed for gifts or used in lucky draws, adding an extra element of fun and excitement to the event. This combination of traditional culture and modern interactive experiences makes the fair an ideal destination for both culture enthusiasts and those seeking fun, engaging activities.
Digital Innovations: Bringing Dujiangyan’s Culture to the World
Embracing modern technology, the fair also launched an online mall where visitors can shop for products and enjoy the fair’s activities remotely. In a nod to Dujiangyan’s cultural richness, digital avatars based on local traditions serve as ambassadors to promote the event and introduce the unique products featured at the fair. This innovative approach allows a broader audience to experience the magic of Dujiangyan, even if they cannot attend in person.
In addition to the fair, the Sustaining Water Forever Culture and Creation Industrial Park will continue to showcase a collection of intangible cultural heritage items and cultural products related to water conservancy. These exhibits will provide a comprehensive understanding of the region’s historical and cultural significance while offering a space for creative interaction and learning.
A Celebration of Tradition, Culture, and Modern Innovation
The 2026 Dujiangyan Village Candy Fair offers a rich blend of traditional cultural celebrations and modern interactive experiences. From the stunning lantern show to the bazaar showcasing local delicacies and geographical indication products, the fair offers something for everyone. With its blend of history, culture, and innovation, this event is sure to captivate both local and international visitors alike.
For travellers looking to immerse themselves in the heart of Sichuan’s heritage, the Dujiangyan Village Candy Fair provides an opportunity to experience the region’s charm and explore its diverse cultural offerings. Whether participating in the urban orienteering event, discovering local delicacies, or enjoying the immersive experiences at the industrial park, visitors will leave with lasting memories of this unique cultural celebration.
