Belgium's Coastal City Lights Up with Vibrant Shoton Festival

The Belgium Regional U-Tsang Association held a vibrant two-day Shoton Festival from July 26 to 27, 2025, in Ostend, Belgium.

The event, graced by Chief Guest Dhundup Gyalpo, Tibetan Liaison Officer for Europe, drew diverse attendees including Belgian government and non-governmental representatives, alongside members of the U-Tsang Cholkha and broader Tibetan community.

The celebrations opened with the traditional Tashi Shoelpa dance, followed by young Belgium U-Tsang members showcasing traditional Tibetan clothing of the U-Tsang region.

Chief Guest Gyalpo, in his keynote, praised the Belgium Regional U-Tsang Association's initiative, stressing the importance of preserving Tibetan culture through language, history, and education.

He urged the community to continue fostering cultural identity among the youth amidst an ever-evolving world, while marking 2025 as the 'Year of Compassion,' advocating for community-driven compassionate events.

The festival also celebrated the Dalai Lama's 90th birthday with a ceremonial cake-cutting, following remarks from President Ngawang Zomkyi on Shoton's cultural significance.

A standout performance by the French Lhamo group with the Tibetan opera Khandro Drowa Zangmo captivated attendees, punctuated by traditional Tibetan circle dances and games, enhancing unity and joy during the festivities.

The event concluded with gratitude expressed by Tsomo, Secretary of the Belgium Regional U-Tsang Association, according to CTA and ANI reports.

(With inputs from agencies.)