Experience Miao, Dong ethnic groups' traditions in Nantong

File photo: Miao girls dressed in traditional attire. [Photo provided to en.nantong.gov.cn]

The first cultural exchange and art festival themed on the Miao and Dong ethnic groups will take place at the Nantong Botanical Garden in Nantong, East China's Jiangsu province, from April 29 to May 5.

Hundreds of intangible cultural heritage practitioners from Southeast China's Guizhou province will bring an immersive cultural feast of Miao and Dong ethnic groups.

The festival's first highlight is Miao ethnic group's grand parade. Adorned in splendid traditional attire, Miao girls welcome guests with lively lusheng (reed-pipe) performances, Dong ethnic songs, and ceremonial toasts. From the welcoming drink to the 1,000-person banquet, visitors will experience the Miao and Dong people's warmest hospitality.

As night falls, the celebration reaches its peak with a vibrant dance party—where 1,000 guests will move to a fusion of ethnic electronic music and bonfire revelry. This unique blend unlocks exciting new ways to experience intangible cultural heritage.

The second highlight is the intangible cultural heritage theater. Visitors can experience the Jinji dance, a Chinese traditional folk dance, and bamboo pole dance, or watch a runway show displaying attire of Miao and Dong ethnic groups.

The event will also focus on the authentic delicacies of Miao and Dong ethnic groups. It will also include booths about intangible cultural and creative products, where one can find Miao silver jewelry or tie-dye crafts.

Ticket price: 60 yuan ($6.23) per person

Opening hours: 5 pm to 10 pm (April 29 to 30)/10 am to 10 pm (May 1 to 5)

Address: 170 meters to the east of the Langshan Bus Passenger Terminal, Gongnongnan Road, Chongchuan district, Nantong (南通市崇川区工农南路狼山汽车客运站东侧约170米)