Accordingly, the Shoton Festival was established. Later, religious activities and entertainment were combined during the festival. From the beginning of the 18th century, the festival expanded from the Potala Palace to the Norbu Lingka, and celebrations became formalized. Handed down through today, they include polishing of the Buddha's portrait, folk amusement activities at local lingkas (parks) and Tibetan opera. Popular trade fairs are also organized.

During the festival, giant thangkas of the Buddha are unveiled under the sun at the Drepung Monastery and traditional Tibetan operas are performed at the Norbu Lingka. After devoutly viewing the thangkas, people go to the Norbu Lingka and take part inpicnics.

This festival is not only popular in Lhasa, but also in Gyangtse city. The Shoton Festival in Gyangtse city was established later than that in Lhasa, and local people call it Semuqinbo.