Performers dressed in traditional ethnic costumes take part in the opening ceremony of the 31st Inner Mongolia Nadam Fair on July 31. The Nadam Fair opened in Darhan Muminggan Joint Banner, Baotou, which is in North China's Inner Mongolia autonomous region. A thrilling variety of activities unfold at the event, including rousing singing and lively dance performances as well as bokh (Mongolian wrestling), horsemanship and archery events. [Photo/Inner Mongolia Department of Culture and Tourism]

Artistic performances are staged at the opening ceremony. [Photo/Inner Mongolia Department of Culture and Tourism]

Khata scarves, which symbolize purity and compassion, are presented at many ceremonial occasions – including births, weddings and the arrival or departure of guests. [Photo/Inner Mongolia Department of Culture and Tourism]

The opening ceremony kicks off with cultural performances to highlight traditional Mongolian culture. [Photo/Inner Mongolia Department of Culture and Tourism]

Mongolian wrestlers practice bokh (Mongolian wrestling) on the grassland to celebrate the opening ceremony. Wrestling is considered one of "the three games of men" by Mongolians. The sport, along with horsemanship and archery, forms the basis of competitive events at the Nadam Fair, which is held annually in midsummer. [Photo/Inner Mongolia Department of Culture and Tourism]