The ninth Baotou Ovoo Cultural Festival opens in Baotou, in North China’s Inner Mongolia autonomous region, on Sept 15. Traditional Mongolian ceremonies were held to give thanks to nature -- and to pray for favorable weather conditions and a good harvest. Ovoos are sacred stone heaps used as shrines or altars. They mainly serve as sites for religious ceremonies, but it is also thought they might bring a good harvest or good health to an individual. [Photo/Baotou Evening News]

Attendees present khata to the ovoo on Sept 15. Khata scarves, which symbolize purity and compassion, are presented at many ceremonial occasions -- including births, weddings and the arrival or departure of guests. [Photo/Baotou Evening News]