A vibrant folk art parade in Yuqing County, Zunyi City, southwest China’s Guizhou Province, ushered in the approaching year of 2026 with colour, rhythm and community spirit.

The celebrations opened with a lively street procession led by lion and dragon dancers. They were followed by residents and visitors from neighbouring areas, dressed in ethnic costumes and dancing to traditional tunes. Performing groups showcasing provincial-level intangible cultural heritage marched in formation, exchanging festive greetings as their eye-catching attire and distinctive routines drew enthusiastic applause.

The parade concluded at a central stage, where Yuqing County launched its popular weekly dance contest party – a tourism initiative held every Saturday that has become a cultural highlight for both locals and tourists.

“We’d dance Blooming Flowers and Full Moon, greeting the New Year with our beautiful movements,” said participant Xu Tingyu.

As fireworks lit up the night sky, performers and spectators gathered around a bonfire, dancing together and sharing hopes for “peace, safety and happiness” in the year ahead.

Source: China Central Television