The Walnut Festival in Yangbi County, Dali
Basic Introduction
Chinese Name: 漾濞县核桃节
English Name: The Walnut Festivalue in Yangbi County, Dali
Date: Annual September
Location: Guangming Village, Yangbi County, Dali Bai Autonomous Prefecture
The month-long festival has been set to be launched at the walnut orchard of Guangming Village, which is about 15 km from the county seat of Yangbi. A sacrifice-offering ceremony will be held by locals for the God of Walnut, and different activities will come soon, such as tasting walnut food, countryside sightseeing, walnut products promotion, and cultural shows etc.
Guangming Village sits on the west side of the Cangshan Mt, and is called home by nationalities of Han, Yi, Hui, Miao and Lisu. 65% of the income here counts on walnut trees-the number of which has amounted to at least 81,000 since the 1980s. Its estimate annual output of walnuts stands at 220 tonnes (fresh), with dry nuts worth 2.2 million yuan ($0.35 mn).
Dali possesses a unique natural environment and climatic conditions, making it the best suitable area for walnut cultivation. Dali is the origin and primary production area of the southern walnut variety known as “Yangbi Walnut.” The region has a long history of walnut cultivation, with vast suitable planting areas and rich germplasm resources.
In the walnut forests of Dali, one can directly experience the fragrant golden fruits and also share in the joy of the local people’s bountiful harvest. The Yangbi Walnut has established significant brand value not only in the province but also nationwide. Every year, the Dali Walnut Festival utilizes various promotional channels to strengthen this brand further. Additionally, the sprawling walnut forests in Yangbi County have spurred the development of the local tourism industry, making the Dali Walnut Festival a major attraction for tourists from all over the country.
*Travel Route: Kunming–Chuxiong–Dali—Yangbi
Local Activities of The Walnut Festival
- Walnut Harvesting: Participants can engage in the traditional harvesting of walnuts, allowing visitors to experience the agricultural practices and hard work of local farmers.
- Cultural Performances: The festival often features traditional music and dance performances that showcase the rich cultural heritage of the region, including local ethnic customs.
- Walnut-Themed Workshops: Workshops may be held to educate attendees on various aspects of walnut cultivation, processing, and usage, including cooking classes that highlight walnut-based dishes.
- Artisan Markets: Local artisans may set up booths to sell walnut-related products, crafts, and souvenirs, allowing visitors to support local economies and take home unique items.
- Tastings and Food Festivals: Visitors can sample a variety of dishes made with walnuts, as well as other local delicacies, during food fairs and tastings held throughout the festival.
- Nature Tours: Guided tours of the picturesque walnut orchards and surrounding natural landscapes are often organized, offering participants a chance to enjoy the stunning scenery of Dali.
- Competitions and Games: Various fun competitions, such as walnut-picking contests or cooking challenges, are usually held to engage participants and create a festive atmosphere.
- Community Celebrations: The festival often serves as a platform for community gatherings, including feasting, storytelling, and sharing of local traditions, fostering a sense of unity among residents and visitors.
