As Lunar New Year celebrations sweep across the Chinese mainland, the ancient city of Xi'an is stealing the spotlight with its centuries-old Shehuo performances. This week, crowds flocked to Shaanxi Province's Minleyuan pedestrian street to witness drummers, stilt-walkers, and dragon dancers transform the historical capital into a living museum of intangible cultural heritage.
Cultural Roots Meet Modern Revelry
Dating back to Neolithic harvest rituals, Shehuo (社火) combines martial arts, theater, and folk beliefs in vibrant processions meant to ensure prosperity. \\"The earth-shaking drums aren't just music – they're a conversation with our ancestors,\\" explained one third-generation performer, his costume's bells jingling with every step.
Festival Highlights Through Lantern Festival
From now through February 24 (Lantern Festival), twelve daily shows will feature:
- Hypnotic lion dances weaving through crowds
- 20-foot dragon puppets undulating to drum cadences
- Local artisans demonstrating traditional mask-making
Cultural preservationists note a 40% increase in young participants since 2020, blending TikTok trends with ancestral traditions. For travelers, Xi'an offers guided heritage walks connecting Shehuo sites with landmarks like the Terracotta Warriors.
Reference(s):
cgtn.com
