Winter Fishing and Mongolian Heritage Shine at Daqing’s Ice and Snow Nadam Fair, Everything You Need to Know

Published on December 27, 2025

The 2025 Ice and Snow Nadam Fair, which features winter fishing, has officially begun in Mongolian Autonomous County of Dorbod, Daqing City of Heilongjiang Province, northeast China. A major tourist attraction, the opening on December 27 has offered a rare glimpse into this region’s unique cultural heritage combined with outdoor adventure.

Celebrating Local Heritage and Sustainable Practices
The Ice and Snow Nadam Fair is a celebration of Dorbod’s cultural heritage and sustainable farming practices. The event integrates the local fishing industry, cultural tourism, and small businesses, providing a platform for local producers to showcase their crafts. Beekeepers and honey producers, for example, are given the opportunity to sell their products directly to visitors, contributing to the local economy while preserving traditional livelihoods.

As tourists flock to the festival, they are introduced to the rich natural landscapes that define the region. From the snow-covered peaks to the frozen lakes, visitors can experience the natural beauty of Daqing while participating in age-old traditions. The festival highlights the importance of eco-tourism in preserving the environment while promoting local culture, making it an ideal destination for travelers interested in both adventure and cultural immersion.

Winter Fishing: A Hands-On Cultural Experience
One of the main attractions at the fair is winter fishing, a practice that has been an integral part of the local culture for centuries. On the icy expanse of Lianhuan Lake, visitors can observe or even try their hand at this traditional technique. Winter fishing is not only a way of life for the people of Dorbod but also a symbol of the region’s resilience and resourcefulness in the face of harsh winters.

The event provides a hands-on experience for tourists, who can try their luck at catching fish while enjoying the wintery landscape. The fair offers a truly immersive experience that allows travelers to connect with the local way of life. Families, in particular, will enjoy the opportunity to bond over the shared activity of fishing on the ice, making it an ideal winter vacation for those seeking an authentic experience in China. The event provides a hands-on experience for tourists, who can try their luck at catching fish while enjoying the wintery landscape. The fair offers a truly immersive experience that allows travelers to connect with the local way of life. Families, in particular, will enjoy the opportunity to bond over the shared activity of fishing on the ice, making it an ideal winter vacation for those seeking an authentic experience in China’s northeastern region.

Cultural Performances and Family-Friendly Activities
In addition to winter fishing, the fair features a rich program of cultural performances, workshops, and family-friendly activities. Visitors can enjoy live music, traditional dances, and horse riding, all of which reflect the region’s Mongolian roots. These performances add to the festive atmosphere and provide a deeper understanding of Dorbod’s cultural traditions.

Children are particularly welcomed at the event, with designated play zones and activities designed to engage young visitors. Whether it’s crafting, learning about local wildlife, or participating in interactive workshops, the festival offers plenty of opportunities for kids to explore and learn in a fun and safe environment. Parents can also relax in the festival’s lounges, enjoying food from local vendors and sipping warm drinks while their children enjoy the various activities.

The festival’s emphasis on education and community involvement makes it a wonderful experience for tourists who are interested in learning about the area’s history and traditions. It also provides a great opportunity for families to spend quality time together while experiencing something unique and educational.

Supporting Local Economies and Sustainable Tourism
The economic impact of the Ice and Snow Nadam Fair extends beyond tourism. The event serves as a valuable platform for local farmers, fishermen, and small businesses to showcase their products and services to a broader audience. The festival provides a direct sales channel for these producers, helping them gain exposure and support their livelihoods. Local artisans, food producers, and vendors benefit from the increased foot traffic, which boosts their incomes and supports sustainable economic development.

Moreover, the event aligns with the region’s long-term goal of developing sustainable agri-tourism and eco-tourism industries. As travelers become more conscious of their environmental impact, events like the Ice and Snow Nadam Fair provide an opportunity to promote responsible tourism practices that prioritize sustainability, cultural preservation, and local entrepreneurship. By focusing on these principles, Daqing is positioning itself as an emerging eco-tourism destination that offers authentic and sustainable experiences for visitors.

An Emerging Destination for Winter Tourism
With its emphasis on nature, culture, and sustainability, the Ice and Snow Nadam Fair is rapidly becoming an important destination for winter tourism in China. As more tourists seek alternatives to traditional, heavily trafficked destinations, Daqing’s combination of winter activities, cultural heritage, and eco-tourism initiatives makes it an appealing option for travelers looking to explore off-the-beaten-path destinations.

The fair also marks the continued development of Daqing as a year-round tourism destination. While traditionally known for its oil industry, the city is increasingly gaining recognition for its cultural and natural offerings. The success of events like the Ice and Snow Nadam Fair is contributing to the region’s shift towards a more diversified economy, where tourism plays a key role in driving growth and innovation.

A Winter Wonderland with Cultural Depth

The Ice and Snow Nadam Fair in Daqing, China, is an excellent chance for visitors to discover the rich cultural heritage and winter customs of the region. Activities that range from ice fishing on lakes to displaying Mongolian customs make this one of the best places to be for a memorable experience. With the growing development of Daqing as a tourist destination, this and other similar events will be vital in influencing the future of this region.