#China #Cultural Heritage #Dujiangyan #Candy Fair

Dujiangyan's 2026 Candy Fair: A Cultural Celebration

On the eve of the New Year, the picturesque city of Dujiangyan, located in Sichuan Province, China, kicked off its much-anticipated Candy Fair 2026. This annual event not only celebrates local sweet treats but also highlights the rich cultural heritage of the region, famously known for its ancient irrigation system.

The fair commenced with a breathtaking lantern show that drew inspiration from the age-old wisdom of water conservation practices in the area. The event featured magnificent giant lantern installations, which were inspired by the legendary figure of Li Bing, the ancient governor of Sichuan responsible for the construction of the Dujiangyan irrigation system. These stunning visual displays, paired with other large-scale exhibits rooted in local legends and historical narratives, crafted an enchanting nighttime experience for attendees.

After the lantern spectacle, a thematic bazaar opened in the ancient city of Guanxian, running until January 3rd. This vibrant market showcases a variety of local beverages, teas, spirits, and exquisite delicacies representative of the city, including five geographic indication products, such as kiwi and Chuanxiong (Sichuan lovage). These items exemplify the rich cultural and culinary heritage of the region, reflecting the local community's dedication to preserving their traditions.

Moreover, the ancient city is set to host an urban orientation event featuring two thematic routes: the Ancient Dam Tour and the Guanxian Taste Route. Participants can sign up through a mini-program to collect stamps while enjoying specials offered by participating businesses.

A series of cultural and tourism activities are planned, including demonstrations of intangible cultural heritage, NPC parades, interactive performances, and exhibitions of special products from Dujiangyan's international sister cities. These activities aim to enrich visitors' experiences and promote consumption during the New Year holiday.

From January 1st to 3rd, the Sustainable Water Forever Culture and Creation Industrial Park in Dujiangyan is organizing an immersive interactive event inspired by ancient styles. Visitors are encouraged to capture memorable moments with artists dressed in traditional Hanfu and animal head costumes during a parade, as well as complete designated routes to earn 'silver tickets' through various contests and challenges. These tickets can be exchanged for gifts or used in raffles, adding a layer of excitement for attendees.

Adding a contemporary twist to the festivities is the special guest appearance of the anime-style furry character, 'Nine-Tails Lingjiu.' Previously, some tourist spots faced criticism for allegedly copying its unique design. This original character made its debut at the Lingran Workshop within the industrial park, showcasing the charm of creative and authentic design.

In addition to the events, from January onwards, the industrial park will host exhibitions, sales, and interactive experiences centered around elements of intangible cultural heritage and cultural products focusing on water conservation. An online store has also been launched for this year's candy fair, featuring digital avatars rooted in the local culture of Dujiangyan as unique ambassadors to promote activities and introduce products related to the fair.

This year's candy fair not only aims to highlight delicious local sweets but also fosters a deeper appreciation of Dujiangyan's cultural legacy. As visitors indulge in the delightful treats and partake in celebratory activities, they contribute to the preservation and promotion of a heritage that has thrived for centuries in this charming city.