Losar Events 2027 (Tibetan & Himalayan New Year)

Losar is the most important celebration of the Tibetan calendar, observed across the Tibetan Plateau, in Himalayan regions of Nepal, India and Bhutan, and by Tibetan communities around the world. Families reunite, and the celebration can last about fifteen days.

Before the new year, homes get a thorough cleaning. On the night of the 29th day of the old year, families eat guthuk (a noodle soup with hidden objects in the dough balls that are said to reveal your personality). Kitchens fill with khapse (deep-fried New Year biscuits), and dresil (sweet rice) is served. At monasteries, people make offerings, hang new prayer flags, light butter lamps and exchange the greeting "Losar Tashi Delek" (Happy New Year).

In the US and Canada, look for Losar celebrations hosted by Tibetan community groups, universities and Buddhist centers. Dates can differ from Chinese New Year: in 2027, Losar begins February 7 in Bhutan and Sikkim, while Nepal's Losar holiday, Gyalpo Lhosar, falls on March 5.

Sources: University of Colorado Tibet Himalaya Initiative, Tibetan Nuns Project, Office Holidays.