People of the Shui ethnic group in Congjiang county, Qiandongnan Miao and Dong autonomous prefecture celebrated the traditional Mao Festival on June 28.

The Mao Festival, which is celebrated in May of the lunar calendar every year, is one of the most solemn traditional festivals of the Shui people where they pray for a pleasant climate and a good harvest. The festival is also known as Eastern Valentine's day, as it attracts many young men and women.

The celebration of the festival usually consists of welcoming guests, singing songs, daciba (making sticky rice bread), performing the copper drum dance, playing the Lusheng (a traditional instrument), and displaying ethnic costumes.

On the eve of the Mao Festival, villages often hold a grand ceremony to worship their ancestors. Delicious food will be prepared for friends, relatives and neighbors. On the day of the festival, villagers of all ages and genders gather together wearing their best costumes to celebrate.

Shui people welcome guests at the entrance of Gaoliang village, Xiajiang town on June 28. [Photo/gog.cn]

Villagers play the Lusheng at the Mao Festival on June 28. [Photo/gog.cn]

Children of the Shui ethnic group sing songs while wearing traditional costumes. [Photo/gog.cn]