Qixiang village, a nationally recognized rural tourism hotspot in Taixing, a county-level city in Taizhou, Jiangsu province, is preparing for its 2026 Spring Festival cultural celebrations featuring vibrant folk performances. On Jan 28, rehearsals for the festival's entertainment projects began at Xiaonanhu scenic area, offering a preview of the lively New Year festivities.
The performance team rehearses. [Photo/Taixing Media Convergence Center]
Known for its rich cultural heritage and expertise in rural tourism, Qixiang village has hosted annual Spring Festival events for years, establishing itself as a regional benchmark for traditional celebrations. This year's highlight features five themed performance troupes, each representing the "spirit of striving upward" through five Olympic rings-inspired formations.
The performance is inspired by Olympic rings. [Photo/Taixing Media Convergence Center]
Event director Yu Songshan emphasized the symbolic fusion of dragon and horse motifs for the Year of the Horse, representing resilience and progress. Beyond the main stage, floating boats performed folk songs, operas, and orchestral pieces on Xiaonanhu Lake, creating a picturesque backdrop.
Floating boats perform folk songs, operas, and orchestral pieces on Xiaonanhu Lake. [Photo/Taixing Media Convergence Center]
Village leader Ding Xueqi said, "We're reviving time-honored traditions to immerse visitors in an authentic New Year atmosphere." By integrating folk culture with scenic tours, Qixiang village aims to boost rural tourism, increase villagers' income, and strengthen collective economic growth. The 15-day festival, running from Spring Festival to Lantern Festival, will feature markets, performances, and lake cruises, inviting tourists to experience China's rural charm.