On Lantern Festival's Eve, which fell on Feb 14 this year, the city of Ordos in North China's Inner Mongolia autonomous region organized an activity in Ejin Horoo Banner to boost its cultural exchanges.

A cultural exchange activity to mark the Lantern Festival is held in Ejin Horoo Banner on Feb 14. [Photo provided to chinadaily.com.cn]

The Lantern Festival takes place on the first full moon of the new year, which falls on the 15th day of the first lunar month, according to the Chinese Lunar Calendar.

Nine foreign people living, working and studying in Ordos city – coming from the UK, Ukraine, South Africa, the Philippines and elsewhere – were invited to experience the traditional cultural customs of the region.

Participants perform yangko, a type of Chinese folk dance, during a cultural activity on Feb 14. [Photo provided to chinadaily.com.cn]

An art performance is staged during a cultural activity on Feb 14. [Photo provided to chinadaily.com.cn]

Activities held during the day included watching a performance staged by the Ulan Muqir art troupe as well as yangko – a type of Chinese folk dance – and guessing lantern riddles.

Participants were said to have been moved and impressed by the performances and rich range of activities, saying that they experienced the kindness and the warmth of Ordos city and the charm of traditional Chinese culture.

Since 2017, Ordos has held these cultural exchange activities for six consecutive years, attracting the wide and enthusiastic participation of foreign friends living and working in the city.

People tuck into some traditional Ordos food during the cultural exchange activity. [Photo/Ordos Daily]