This year’s National Day holiday in Guangzhou has been a vibrant showcase of intangible cultural heritage activities. We had the opportunity to speak with several attendees and organizers to gather their perspectives on the diverse exhibitions, performances, competitions, sales, and lectures happening throughout the city. These events have allowed both locals and tourists to fully engage with the unique charm of intangible cultural heritage and the rich traditions of Lingnan culture.
At the Guangzhou Cultural Center, a range of meticulously organized exhibitions centered on intangible cultural heritage are taking place. One standout feature is the special exhibition titled “Tuan Tu Rao Chao Yin—Dawu Clay Sculpture Art Exhibition and Guangzhou Academy of Fine Arts Workshop Results Exhibition,” located on the first floor. Here, visitors can dive deep into the captivating world of Dawu clay sculptures through guided tours and interactive classes. Additionally, the “Cui Mai Chang Qing—Season for the Inheritance and Promotion of Lingnan Bonsai Art” series in the central plaza highlights masterful bonsai creations alongside inventive works by children.
Various districts throughout Guangzhou are also hosting a multitude of exhibitions and events during the holiday. In Panyu, for instance, a stunning Lion Dance exhibition at Aoyuan Square beautifully intertwines traditional lion dance with modern interpretations. Yuexiu district is featuring the “Continuing the Ancient Yue Cultural Heritage and Composing a New Chapter” exhibition at the Nanyue Ancestors Memorial Hall, where audiences are invited to immerse themselves in the captivating narratives of Cantonese intangible cultural heritage. Meanwhile, in Huadu, a special exhibition in Langtou Ancient Village offers a chance to appreciate Huadu’s unique intangible heritage within its historical architecture.
Beyond exhibitions, Guangzhou’s districts are brimming with lively performance events. In Nansha District, the Tianhou Palace is hosting the “Art Tour of the Bay Area—Nansha Carnival,” which includes an array of performances such as magic tricks, face-changing acts, bowl balancing, and shadow puppetry. Nansha Huanyu City is also featuring Chaozhou Yingge dance, dragon dance parades, and Sichuan opera face-changing performances. Not to be missed, the 28th Huadu Auto Culture Carnival is showcasing heritage performances, including iron flower making and fire-spitting spectacles, which have attracted a large audience.
As these activities continue to unfold, it’s evident that Guangzhou is celebrating its rich intangible cultural heritage, creating an engaging and festive atmosphere for everyone involved.
