Xinjiang Ili Heavenly Horses Festival Returns in 2025
The 2025 edition of the Xinjiang Ili Heavenly Horses Culture and Tourism Festival kicked off on Saturday in Zhaosu County, Xinjiang Uygur Autonomous Region. Spanning five months—from May through October—this signature event features 16 unique activities blending athleticism, scholarship, and cultural heritage.
At its heart are thrilling equestrian competitions that showcase the mighty Ili horse, a breed celebrated for centuries in this region of the Chinese mainland as the perfect mix of power and agility. Riders from across the country are set to compete in everything from long-distance endurance races to precision show jumping.
Beyond the track, the festival hosts academic seminars delving into the economics and sustainability of the horse industry. Young innovators will demo new equine technologies—think digital tracking and eco-friendly stable designs—while experts discuss best practices in breeding and welfare.
Youth combat matches add another layer of excitement, pitting martial arts teams against one another in dynamic games that blend skill, strategy, and tradition. Evenings come alive with colorful cultural performances, where local Uygur music, dance, and storytelling bring the region's ethnic tapestry to life under the summer sky.
Since its inception in 1992, the Heavenly Horses Festival has become a cornerstone of Zhaosu's tourism calendar. Organizers say the event not only preserves a horse-breeding legacy dating back thousands of years, but also drives sustainable development by spotlighting local crafts, cuisine, and hospitality.
Whether you're an equestrian enthusiast, culture lover, or digital nomad seeking a one-of-a-kind travel adventure, the Xinjiang Ili Heavenly Horses Festival offers a deep dive into the Chinese mainland's pastoral heritage—and a front-row seat to five months of non-stop gallop and glory.
Reference(s):
cgtn.com
