With the Spring Festival just two months away, Qiyuan Village in Beijing’s Changping District is coming alive with the pulse of drums and cymbals, the flare of fireworks and the glow of lanterns. This vibrant display marks the annual Dragon Drum performance, a tradition that has been at the heart of local celebrations for more than 280 years.
Rooted in villagers’ hopes to drive away misfortune and pray for peace, the Dragon Drum first resonated through the village’s narrow lanes in the mid-18th century. Officially recognized in 2007 as part of Beijing’s Municipal Intangible Cultural Heritage, the performance combines rhythmic drumming, intricate cymbal patterns and dynamic choreography to create a multisensory spectacle.
Today, a troupe of over 50 local drummers, guided by village elder Zhang, practices weekly in a communal courtyard. Leveraging social media and livestreaming, they’ve doubled their virtual audience in the past three years—drawing attention from culture enthusiasts across the G20 nations, curious entrepreneurs and global travelers alike.
Beyond its rhythmic power, the Dragon Drum serves as a living link between past and present. Visitors who join the open rehearsal sessions not only witness time-honored techniques but also learn simple drum patterns themselves, fostering cross-cultural exchange and community spirit.
As lanterns light up the night sky this coming February, the Dragon Drum’s deep resonance will echo Beijing’s enduring cultural heritage. For young global citizens, business travelers and digital nomads seeking an immersive experience, Qiyuan Village offers a front-row seat to one of the Chinese mainland’s most captivating Spring Festival traditions.
Reference(s):
cgtn.com
