The Shaxi "Lunar April 8" Festival, a provincial-level intangible cultural heritage, originated in the late Ming and early Qing dynasties. On the 8th day of the 4th lunar month every year, Shengshi and Xiangjiao villages come alive with festivities. This year's Shaxi "Lunar April 8" folk art parade featured ICH performances such as Shaxi Crane Songs, Shengshi Dragon Dance and Xiangjiao Dragon Dance, drawing crowds of visitors.

Dragon dance performers present highly challenging skills to the audience. Photo by Hu Jiaqing

The eye-opening ceremony attract a large crowd of onlookers. Photo by Mi Li

Before the parade, elders hold an eye-opening ceremony for the white cranes. Photo by Zhao Xiujiang

The golden dragon makes its grand entrance. Photo by Liu Shijue

Villagers have prepared Luanxi cakes for performers and visitors. Photo by Li Zeyan