Huzhou temple fair celebrates silk art traditions
The 28th Xinshi Silkworm Flower Temple Fair, a grand celebration of millennia-old sericultural traditions, took place from April 4 to 6 in Xinshi Ancient Town, Deqing county, Huzhou, East China's Zhejiang province.
This hallmark folk festival in Deqing was listed as a provincial-level intangible cultural heritage item in 2007. Initially a ritual for local silkworm farmers to pray for a bountiful harvest, it has evolved into a vibrant platform for cultural exchange, attracting visitors nationwide and beyond, showcasing Huzhou's rich sericulture.
One of the highlights of the fair was its grand parade. The procession, featuring dragon dances, traditional yangge dances, and martial arts displays, wound through Xinshi's main streets.
Anna from Belarus, a student at the Communication University of Zhejiang, participates in the fair's parade as one of the "Silkworm Flower Maidens". [Photo/Tide News]
The most eye-catching part of the procession was six elaborately decorated flowered sedan chairs, carrying "Silkworm Flower Maidens" scattering silkworm flowers and candies to spread blessings to onlookers. These silkworm flowers are typically made with traditional silk-making techniques.
The parade attracted throngs of spectators eager to catch a glimpse of the festivities and collect the scattered flowers for good luck, creating a lively and joyful atmosphere.
This year's fair also introduced innovative performances, including live-action water performances and immersive theater, alongside traditional festivities.
One of the "Silkworm Flower Maidens" scatters silkworm flowers to spread blessings to onlookers. [Photo/Tide News]
