National Culture Heritages in Guangxi (Activities)

Gexu of the Zhuang ethnic group

Gexu, or singing fair, is a traditional cultural activity of the Zhuang ethnic group, as well as a place for young men and women to socialize. On these occasions, young people from nearby villages will wear their finest traditional clothing and come together at Gexu to sing songs and meet their possible romantic partner. It is mainly held in the spring and autumn seasons. It is most frequently held in March and April in the spring, and usually on the third of the third lunar month. The autumn fairs are typically held in August and September of the lunar calendar, especially during the Mid-autumn Festival. Gexu was included in the national intangible cultural heritage list on May 20, 2006.

Young girls of the Zhuang ethnic group take part in Gexu. [Photo/gxfybhw.cn]

Lingtou festival of Qinzhou

'Tiaolingtou' or Lingtou festival is a folk activity in Qinzhou, Guangxi Zhuang autonomous region, where the Han and Zhuang cultures merge and coexist. It is held in all counties and districts of Qinzhou, and has a history of more than 470 years. It is composed of two parts: dance and music. The dancers wear corresponding costumes and masks according to the roles of the dance segment, perform a styled dance with the character's personality, as well as play percussion instruments like drums and gongs. Relying on folk beliefs, 'Tiaolingtou' absorbs and displays rich cultural elements, such as folk songs, dances, and dramas. It was listed as a national intangible cultural heritage on Nov 11, 2014.

People in Qinzhou dance at the Lingtou Festival. [Photo/gxfybhw.cn]