The upcoming 800-year-old Qintong Boat Festival in the Jiangyan district of Taizhou city – located in East China's Jiangsu province – is experiencing a revival, with the involvement of over 2,800 local young participants.
Traditionally held around the Qingming Festival in April, the centuries-old tradition includes theatrical performances, as well as dragon and lion dances, with folk dances taking place directly on the boats.
Participating in the races on Qinhu Lake, however, is no small feat. Whether it's the meticulous process of crafting bamboo poles to support the boats, the physical stamina required to maneuver the poles, or the precise rhythm needed for control, all demand experience.
In recent years, there has been a noticeable decline in interest in the festival, leading to concerns about the tradition becoming outdated.
To address this, the Jiangyan district transformed the festival into a multi-month racing event to attract a younger audience and encourage their active involvement.
As the festival draws near, young participants from across Jiangyan diligently hone their boating skills on Qinhu Lake. [Photo/WeChat account: jyrmzf]
The shift in the latest event's demographics is evident, as all 2,800 race contestants are 45 years old or younger, with an average age of around 35.
This year's festival, set to take place from April to June, will feature 91 boats engaging in racing competitions every weekend. Visitors to the Qinhu Lake Scenic Area are expected to encounter a great blend of speed and passion.