The Sweet Village Fair: A Festive Celebration in Dujiangyan, Sichuan

On the eve of the New Year, the Sweet Village Fair 2026 commenced in Dujiangyan, Sichuan, known for housing the world's oldest operational irrigation system. The fair opens a delightful window into the region's sweet treats, cultural customs, and vibrant traditions.

A Magical Beginning

The festivities kicked off with a captivating lantern show symbolizing the millennial wisdom related to water preservation in the region. The display featured massive lantern installations inspired by Li Bing, an ancient governor of Sichuan, who is credited with creating the Dujiangyan irrigation system. This enchanting spectacle, paired with other large-scale demonstrations that celebrated local legends and historical narratives, painted a mesmerizing picture, inviting visitors into the allure of cultural storytelling.

The Thematic Bazaar

Continuing until January 3, 2026, the fair will host a thematic bazaar in the ancient Guanxian town. Attendees can savor the essence of the region through its signature drinks, teas, strong liquors, and local delicacies. Among the highlight products are five distinctive geographical specialties, including kiwis and Chuanxun (Sichuan lovage roots), alongside exquisite pieces of intangible cultural heritage and unique products from across Sichuan.

In addition to culinary treasures, the ancient town features an urban orienteering event with two thematic trails: the “Ancient Dams Tour” and the “Guanxian Aroma Trail.” Participants can register via a mini-app to collect stamps and unlock special offers from trading partners, making the experience interactive and rewarding.

Cultural Extravaganza

The Sweet Village Fair offers an array of cultural and tourist activities designed to enrich visitors' experiences. These include demonstrations of intangible cultural heritage, parades featuring fictional characters, interactive performances, and exhibitions showcasing products from Dujiangyan's sister cities. The event promises an immersive mix of tradition and innovation that captivates the audience.

From January 1 to 3, the Sustaining Water Forever Culture and Creation Industrial Park in Dujiangyan will host engaging interactive activities reflecting ancient customs. Visitors can capture memories with performers in traditional Hanfu costumes and animal-head outfits during the parade. They can traverse designated paths to complete engaging tasks, register, and earn “silver tickets” through quizzes, talent shows, and challenges. These tickets are redeemable for gifts or entries into prize draws.

A special guest joining the festivities will be the anime character “Nine-Tails Lingjiu,” a beloved figure whose original design captivated audiences and sparked interest amid aesthetic discussions of local attractions adopting unique styles. This character was born in the Lingran workshop within the industrial park and will parade, showcasing authentic creative design.

Starting in January, the industrial park will also introduce a collection of intangible cultural heritage items and cultural and creative products focusing on water conservation. The exhibit will include showcases, sales, and interactive activities, providing visitors with numerous opportunities to engage with local culture.

An online store for the Sweet Village Fair is also set to launch, featuring digital avatars rooted in Dujiangyan's local culture as exclusive ambassadors to promote upcoming events and merchandise. This fusion of tradition and modern technology ensures that the cultural narrative of Dujiangyan continues to thrive and engage with a wider audience.

In conclusion, the Sweet Village Fair in Dujiangyan is more than just a celebration of sweets; it is an emblem of cultural heritage, community spirit, and a unique opportunity to explore the delightful flavors and rich traditions of Sichuan. Visitors from near and far will find themselves enchanted by the sights, sounds, and tastes of this vibrant event, making it a must-visit destination this New Year.