On May 1, the theme event Explore Yuanyangxi, Embrace Folk Customs kicked off grandly at Yuanyangxi of Ningde Global Geopark. Set against the stunning natural landscapes, the event intangible cultural heritage folk customs, traditional Chinese tea art and historical performances, presenting tourists from all over a delightful holiday feast featuring scenic beauty, profound culture and rich folk charm.

The venue was filled with wonderful performances. The lantern dance Radiant Stream Delights was graceful and poetic. The 42-form Taiji Sword, fitness balloon routines and ball exercises blended strength and softness, brimming with vitality. The tea art show of Pingnan high-mountain tea was elegant and serene, fully embodying the charm of the hometown of tea. The scene drama Famous General Defending Taiwan, Unyielding Heroic Spirit vividly portrayed the demeanour of historical celebrities from Pingnan. Cheongsam and Hanfu shows showcased the elegance of traditional Chinese aesthetics. The grand finale folk show Gather Blessings by the Stream was joyous and lively, bringing the atmosphere to a climax. Combining dance, martial arts, tea art, live performances and folk displays, the diverse programmes fully showcased Pingnan’s profound cultural heritage and distinctive folk traditions.

Meanwhile, an experience zone for the intangible heritage egg tea was set up in the geopark. Demonstrations, free tasting and interactive activities of this time-honored craft were held, alongside immersive promotion of high-mountain tea culture. Surrounded by green mountains and clear waters, visitors savoured the heritage tea and appreciated folk art, getting a close taste of the unique glamour and humanistic warmth of Pingnan’s intangible cultural heritage, with highly engaging experiences.

This May Day holiday event has further enriched cultural and tourism offerings, improved the geopark’s service quality and cultural connotation, and created a festive, harmonious and well-ordered holiday atmosphere. It has effectively burnished Yuanyang Stream’s brand as a destination of eco-tourism and folk heritage, and will keep driving the high-quality development of Pingnan’s cultural and tourism industry.