Shangri-La City in southwest China's Yunnan Province came alive with a grand horse racing event as the Zang (Tibetan) community celebrated the Duanwu Festival, highlighting vibrant traditions amid its stunning snow-capped mountains and lush landscapes.
The Duanwu Festival or Dragon Boat Festival falls on the fifth day of the fifth month in the Chinese lunar calendar. This year, it is being celebrated on May 31. During the festival, people take part in different traditions to honor the patriotic poet Qu Yuan, such as dragon boat races and eating zongzi (sticky rice dumplings)
Horses have long played a vital role in the daily life of the Zang people. Although the horse is no longer the primary form of transportation, it remains a cherished tradition and symbol of cultural pride.
Recognized as a provincial-level intangible cultural heritage, this horse racing festival traces its roots back centuries and has now evolved into a government-supported cultural showcase, blending ethnic traditions, tourism, and economic exchange.Running from Saturday to Monday, the event brings together ethnic communities from across the country, from nearby Sichuan and Guizhou to Inner Mongolia in the far north.
"It feels incredibly exciting. I'm really impressed by the event. Every rider is giving it their all out there, showing both spirit and style. I really enjoy that energy," said local participant Tsering Wangdu.
"It feels great. The atmosphere, the people, everything has been wonderful. I'm really satisfied, and if I get the chance, I'll come again next year," said Palden Gyangze, participant from Sichuan.
Around the arena, spectators set up tents and mark the holiday in their own ways, sharing barbecue, dancing, and playing Xianzi, a traditional local string instrument, turning the grasslands into a vibrant display of cultural heritage.
"During festive occasions like this, we always play the Xianzi. For example, when guests come from afar, we sing a welcome song. In the lyrics, we often compare the guest to a golden sun, bringing warmth to us, just like the sun shining from a distance," said Gerong Tsering, a local Xianzi performer.
Tenzin Wangmo has run an equestrian club in Shangri-La for nearly 20 years, and she is glad to see the tradition gaining new momentum.
"This year, we had around 400 horses competing. I hope even more people will come to Shangri-La next year, not just to race, but to feel our special horse culture and experience our food traditions. I truly hope the festival continues to grow year by year," said Tezin Wangmo, owner of Yalasuo Equstrian Club.
Grand horse racing event held in China's Shangri-La to celebrate Duanwu Festival
