Zhangjiagang kicked off its Chinese New Year celebrations with a vibrant carnival in Jincun village, Tangqiao town, on Jan 18. The lively event was a feast of cultural heritage, offering residents a rich and festive experience steeped in tradition.
At the market, over 30 stalls showcased an array of offerings, from traditional calligraphy featuring spring couplets and the Chinese character "fu" (meaning good fortune) to a diverse selection of Chinese New Year goods and cultural handicrafts. Local delicacies such as rice cakes, pastries, and sugar paintings drew large crowds eager to sample these festive treats.
Calligraphy enthusiasts gift "fu" characters to citizens at the market. [Photo/WeChat account: zjgwtgl]
The festivities extended beyond the market, with six folk performance troupes from the village captivating audiences. Highlights included dragon and lion dances, stilt walking, and lively parades through the village's ancient streets and residential courtyards. Performers brought Chinese New Year blessings to every corner, creating a joyful atmosphere that resonated with the crowd.
Folk performance troupes perform dragon and lion dances at the village's ancient street. [Photo/WeChat account: zjgwtgl]
Blending the festive mood with cultural enrichment, Xiju Opera performances delighted audiences with beloved classics. The village also hosted reading sessions featuring local poetries. Families and literature enthusiasts gathered and immersed themselves in the village's thousand-year-old cultural legacy.
Meanwhile, inside local homes, generations came together to make tangyuan (sweet glutinous rice balls, a traditional local Chinese New Year treat) and prepare meals, sharing laughter and creating cherished memories. The warm familial bonds and festive ambiance painted a picture of harmony and happiness in this historic village.
A local family makes tangyuan together. [Photo/WeChat account: zjgwtgl]