Korban Festival is one of the most vibrant festivals in Xinjiang. The holiday runs from May 27 to 31, 2026 (5 days). The atmosphere is lively and full of energy, making it a perfect time for visitors to relax and enjoy authentic local food and culture. 

Must-Eat Foods During Korban Festival

Specialties to try: roasted whole lamb, large-pot pilaf, noodle-stuffed lamb lungs, red willow skewers, fried dough twists (sanza), and noodle soup (fen tang).

Best places to eat:

Changji Snack Street: festival deals and a wide variety of Xinjiang snacks

Kashgar Old City Food Street: eat while strolling through the festive streets

Urumqi Grand Bazaar Food Area: plenty of food options and a lively holiday atmosphere

Keping Camel City Street: local snacks with folk culture on the side

Must-Do Activities During Korban Festival

Nature & sightseeing (relaxed outings):

Tianshan Heavenly Lake: join the lakeside fun run, enjoy mountain and lake views, good for families or couples

Qitai Jiangbulak Scenic Area: great for self-driving, with vast wheat fields, grasslands, and snowy peaks

Keping Red Desert: unique desert landforms, good for photos

Keping Dawan Valley: rare landscape, ideal for travelers who like off-the-beaten-path spots

Cultural & festive activities:

Liyang Village, Fukang: take part in the "Pomegranate Seed Long Table Feast," try local food, and watch Meshrep dance

Huacheng Community, Hutubi: enjoy stage performances including Black Walking Horse and Flowers

Keping Artist Village: experience local culture and visit traditional courtyards

Wanfeng Camel Park: learn about camel culture and interact with camels, good for families

Relaxation & slow travel:

Shuimogou Park, Urumqi: a peaceful place for a walk

Kashgar Old City: wander the alleys, soak in the local atmosphere, and take photos

Subash Valley Scenic Belt, Keping: walk along scenic country roads and enjoy the valley views

Local teahouses: such as the Keping Camel City Old Teahouse, where you can sit back with a warm cup of tea

Practical Holiday Travel Guide

Best places to go for food, fun, and sightseeing:

Urumqi: convenient transport, all-in-one destination for first-time visitors

Changji: festive events, good mix of food and nature

Kashgar: strong local character, great food and cultural experiences

Keping: ideal for self-driving, less crowded, unique scenery, and a relaxing getaway

Travel tips:

What to wear: late May weather is comfortable. Light clothing works, but bring a thin jacket for cooler mornings and evenings

Food etiquette: respect local customs, order what you can finish, avoid wasting food

Getting around: expect more visitors during the holiday. Plan your trip and book accommodation in advance. Self-drivers should check road conditions

Photography: always ask for permission before taking photos of locals or festival activities

Xinjiang during Korban Festival brings together great food, beautiful landscapes, and festive traditions. It's an ideal holiday destination where you can truly relax without rushing from place to place. Over the 5-day break, step away from your busy routine and head to Xinjiang for a trip built around eating, exploring, and having fun.

If you want a one-stop experience of Xinjiang's ethnic culture, contact our travel agency. We'll take care of the planning so you can simply enjoy the holiday. Get in touch and start your Xinjiang getaway.