From the vibrant streets of Xining, northwest China's Qinghai Province, to the jazz-filled stages of Beijing, China's May Day holiday has transformed cities into hubs of cultural celebration and immersive entertainment.
In Chengbei District of Xining, the nights during the May Day holiday come alive with dazzling folk parades and music. On a 700-meter snow leopard-themed street, crowds of over 10,000 gather nightly to dance, snap photos, and enjoy the festive atmosphere.
Performances run from 07:30 to 21:30, creating an immersive experience for visitors. A rotating lineup of acrobatics, magic tricks, traditional Hanfu fashion shows, and Shehuo folk performances keeps the audience engaged. Interactive games like the finger-guessing game and pitch-pot between performers and tourists add to the fun. The night concludes with a spectacular fireworks display, drawing cheers from the crowd.
Shehuo, a traditional folk celebration in China, is a festivity in multiple forms consisting of dragon dance, lion dance, traditional Chinese opera, drum playing and other folk performances that may vary in different regions.
Beyond the performances, riverside camping has become a popular way to spend the evening. Dozens of tents adorned with colorful lights dot the wetland park, where families and friends gather under the night sky.
"During the May Day holiday, our campsite sees over 3,000 visits daily. Our tents are almost fully booked every night. Business is booming," said Bai Yuhong, head of a local camping base.
Xining has also embraced the snow leopard theme with creative shops. Visitors can purchase themed souvenirs like plush toys, fridge magnets, and decorative ornaments. Special holiday coupons have boosted sales significantly.
Meanwhile, in Beijing, the National Center for the Performing Arts (NCPA) launched a jazz-themed music festival at its Taihu Stage Art Center. Throughout the holiday, the event features free indoor and outdoor concerts, with over 200 jazz musicians from nine countries performing.
Outside the concert venues, a bustling market offers food, crafts, and cultural and creative products. "From the snack stalls to the recreation area, and back to the music, it's amazing. I love how it blends everything together," said Ma Yue, a visitor.
As the tunes of jazz fill the air, visitors enjoy a laid-back holiday experience that combines music, food, and cultural shopping.
"We hope the Taihu Jazz Festival will create a fusion of performance and tourism. We want our audience to experience great shows and also enjoy the gardens, shop for cultural and creative products, and taste delicious food," said Guan Jianbo, NCPA's deputy director.
Celebrations light up China’s May Day holiday
