The 2026 Nantong Spring Festival Folk Parade and Spring Tourism Promotion event takes place in Nantong on Feb 21. [Photo/Nantong Daily]

The 2026 Nantong Spring Festival Folk Parade and Spring Tourism Promotion event took center stage in the bustling downtown area of Nantong, Jiangsu province, on Feb 21, showcasing Nantong's rich heritage and contemporary charm.

A highlight of the parade was the Nantong Spring Tourism Promotion formation, which extended an invitation to guests for a romantic spring visit. Featured were unique cultural and tourism projects, such as the immersive live performance Night Painting over the Haohe River, and prominent cultural and tourism landmarks, including the Nantong Forest Safari Park and the Wonderful Farm, all showcasing Nantong's premium springtime tourism offerings.

Performance groups from various counties and districts drew on local folk traditions. For instance, the Tiaomafu dance by the Rudong formation infused ancient art with modern elements. The Rugao formation presented rod puppetry and Tangzi lantern performances, highlighting the living heritage of traditional skills. The Haimen formation creatively blended intangible cultural heritage, such as Haimen folk songs and Tongdong work chants, with modern e-sports.

Continuing last year's theme of cultural integration with other regions, the parade invited outstanding performers of intangible cultural heritage from other regions.

The formation from Deyang city, Sichuan province, captivated the audience with a performance featuring the distinctive costumes of the Sanxingdui ruins. Actors from the Yan'an Song and Dance Troupe also joined the parade, bringing the majestic spirit of the Loess Plateau to Nantong with their vigorous drumbeats and bold dance steps, allowing the audience to experience the unique charm of the Ansai waist drum.

Among the groups, more than 10 dancers from the Yining County Song and Dance Troupe in Xinjiang Uygur autonomous region stood out, their swirling skirts and radiant smiles a testament to the deep friendship and collaboration between Nantong and Yining.