People across China celebrated the day of Longtaitou, or "Dragon Head-raising," on Friday with vibrant folk activities, praying for favorable weather and a bountiful harvest this year.
The "Dragon Head-raising Day" is a significant occasion which falls on the second day of the second month on the Chinese lunar calendar.
In Beijing, for the first time, a lively dragon parade performed by a troupe from south China's Guangxi Zhuang Autonomous Region wowed crowds during a temple fair on a river, attracting numerous locals and tourists.
The 200-meter-long colossal dragon was formed by 36 bamboo rafts and gracefully cruised the river under the skillful coordination of boatmen.
"I am very happy to have the opportunity to participate in this event. Through these activities, we foreigners can share experiences and communicate more with the locals and share Chinese culture," said an international student.
People in east China's Zhejiang Province also held an array of activities to mark the day.
In Yunlong Town of Ningbo City, a total of 20 dragon boat teams paddled on the river, with villagers lining the banks to cheer and celebrate.
"Passing through the dragon gate and touching the dragon's head symbolize elevating success step by step, which is a wonderful blessing," said a tourist.
In Jinyun County of Lishui City, over 150 villagers enthusiastically performed a traditional 100-meter-long dragon dance that snaked through Shuikou Village at dusk, lighting up the night sky and embodying hopes for a bountiful harvest year.
Meanwhile, a lantern show with a history of 800 years dazzled spectators in Taizhou City on the day of Longtaitou with over 2,000 lanterns lightening up a historic street in Ningxi Town. A colossal thousand-meter-long dragon lantern floated overhead, creating a spectacular scene that captivated onlookers.
"It's amazing. I had a wonderful time. It is such a wonderful experience and I absolutely love every moment of it," said a Nigerian visitor.
Further south, in Zhonghe Town of Nanning, capital City of Guangxi, an energetic sparkler-grabbing event, or Huapao, took the center stage, with participants competing fiercely amid the crackling sound of firecrackers.
"Sparkler-grabbing is a folk activity passed down from generation to generation. We hope more people will join in and pass on this good fortune," said Meng Juan, a performer.
Another traditional activity that passed down through generations is a fire dragon dance in Mianyang City of southwest China's Sichuan Province. The flaming dragon, a symbol of vitality and optimism, wowed spectators while dancing in the night sky vividly.
"Performing the fire dragon dance on the occasion of the 'Dragon Head-raising Day' has been our tradition for generations. We wish for a bountiful harvest this year and peace for all," said Tian Jiang, a performer.
Traditional "Dragon Head-raising Day" celebrated across China
