Qingshan village brings winter to life with folk culture festival
Visitors watch local performances during the festival at Qingshan village. [Photo/Baotou news network]
Qingshan village in Shiguai district, Baotou, hosted its first-ever intangible cultural heritage folk festival on Dec 12, drawing over a hundred villagers and tourists to enjoy a lively winter celebration centered around a steaming bowl of traditional pork stew.
As two tour buses arrived, local officials and villagers welcomed guests with drums and yangko dances. Visitors soon joined in, transforming the village entrance into a lively scene of music, laughter, and movement that brightened the cold landscape.
"The stew tastes completely different from what I eat at home," said visitor Li Guoliang. "Being surrounded by nature and joyful people in winter, it's heartwarming in every way."
Apart from the stew, visitors bought authentic farm-fresh items such as homemade tofu and free-range chicken, opening new sales opportunities for local farmers. "This festival is fantastic; it not only energizes the village but also boosts our sales of agricultural products," a villager said.
In northern China, year-end festivities are rich in tradition. Killing a pig and holding a large village feast are beloved customs, firmly anchored in local culture. These culinary celebrations are more than just meals; they serve as cultural symbols, social connectors, and sources of pride for rural communities.
Held every weekend until the Chinese New Year, the festival features folk performances, traditional food, and interactive heritage activities, providing a distinctive glimpse into northern village life.