Kunming’s festival calendar reflects Yunnan’s ethnic diversity. The Yi Torch Festival and Dai Water Splashing Festival are the two biggest events, drawing domestic and international visitors. Dates follow the lunar calendar, so they shift each year. Book accommodation 2 to 4 weeks ahead for major festivals. For more detail, see our Kunming weather by month.
Kunming Events & Festivals: Major Annual Events
Yi Torch Festival (Late July or Early August)
The largest ethnic festival in Yunnan, celebrated on the 24th day of the 6th lunar month (typically late July to early August). In Kunming, the main celebration takes place at the Yunnan Nationalities Village near Dian Lake. Expect massive bonfires, torch parades, wrestling competitions, horse racing, and the iconic “Axi Dancing Under the Moon” mass dance. Street celebrations spill into the city centre. Entry to Nationalities Village during the festival is CNY 120 (US$16.50). The festival runs 3 days. Accommodation in Kunming books out; reserve at least 3 to 4 weeks ahead. The Stone Forest area (Yi ethnic homeland) holds parallel celebrations; the Shilin County events are more authentic but harder to reach without a car. For more detail, see our best time to visit Kunming.
Water Splashing Festival (Mid-April)
The Dai ethnic minority’s New Year celebration, held April 13 to 15 each year. While the epicentre is in Xishuangbanna (southern Yunnan), Kunming hosts celebrations at the Yunnan Nationalities Village and around Green Lake Park. Expect to get soaked: people throw water on each other as a blessing. Wear quick-dry clothing and put electronics in waterproof bags. The festival also features dragon boat races on Dian Lake, Dai dance performances, and the release of floating lanterns in the evening. Entry to Nationalities Village celebrations is CNY 90 (US$12.50). This coincides with the Thai Songkran festival across Southeast Asia. For more detail, see our things to do in Kunming.
Kunming International Flower Expo (April)
Held at the Kunming International Convention and Exhibition Centre and satellite venues including Green Lake Park. Kunming supplies 70% of China’s cut flowers, and this expo is the country’s largest floriculture event. Dates are typically mid-April (exact dates announced in March). Entry is CNY 50 (US$7). Exhibits include rare orchid collections, bonsai competitions, and flower arrangement demonstrations. The expo runs 5 to 7 days. Green Lake Park hosts free outdoor displays during the same period. For more detail, see our Kunming neighborhoods guide.
Kunming Events & Festivals: Seasonal & Cultural Events
Chinese New Year (Late January to Mid-February)
Dates vary by lunar calendar. Kunming sees temple fairs at Yuantong Temple and Golden Temple with food stalls, folk performances, and lantern displays. The city decorates extensively. Most shops and restaurants close for 2 to 3 days. Fireworks are continuous on New Year’s Eve. This is a family holiday; major tourist attractions remain open but are very crowded. Book hotels 4 to 6 weeks ahead if travelling during this period. For more detail, see our where to stay in Kunming.
Kunming International Marathon (December)
Held annually in early to mid-December. The route starts at Kunming Sports Stadium and loops around Dian Lake and the city centre. Distances: full marathon (42.2km), half marathon, 10km, and 5km fun run. Registration opens in September via the official website. Entry fees: CNY 150 (US$21) for full, CNY 100 (US$14) for half. The December timing means race-day temperatures of 8 to 15C (46 to 59F), ideal for running. About 15,000 runners participate. Some roads close on race day morning; plan sightseeing for the afternoon. For more detail, see our Kunming travel tips.
Mid-Autumn Festival (September or Early October)
Celebrated on the 15th day of the 8th lunar month. Locals gather at Green Lake Park and Western Hills for moon-viewing picnics. Mooncakes are sold everywhere. The festival is family-oriented; fireworks are minimal in Kunming compared to other Chinese cities. If the festival falls close to National Day (October 1), the combined holiday period is extremely busy.
