Tibetan cultural heritage took such a hammering during the Cultural Revolution that traditional festivals, once important highlights of the Tibetan year, are only now starting revive. Tibetan festivals are held according to the Tibetan lunar calendar, which usually lags at least a month behind our Gregorian calendar. We have included forth coming dates for some of the festivals listed, but you will need to ask around for the exact dates of many festivals because these are often only fixed by monasteries a few months in advance.
| Festivals | Month |
| Tibetan New Year | Mar - Feb |
| Monlam Festival | Mar - Feb |
| Butter Oil Lantern Festival | Mar - Feb |
| Saga Dawa Festival | May - Jun |
| Horse Racing Festival, Gyantse | Jun |
| Chubacexi Festival | Jul |
| Yalong Cultural Festival | Jul |
| Shoton Festival | Aug - Sep |
Shoton Festival
It is the opera festival and the greatest festivals in Tibet. In ancient times pious folks went into mountain hermitages of which yoghurt was served for meal followed by entertainment of folk songs and dances. Since 7th century, opera performances were held for days in norbu lingka. Presently, opera contests and distribution of prizes are held for seven days.
Other Festivals Of Tibet
Ganden Festival
Harvest Festival
Kungbu Traditional Festival
Bathing Week
