Shanghai's Jiading district celebrated the Spring Dragon Festival on March 11 with an event bringing together local residents and international students.
The Spring Dragon Festival, or the Dragon Head Raising Day, falls on the second day of the second lunar month every year and recognizes the start of spring and farming season.
The Spring Dragon Festival celebration commences with a vibrant dragon dance. [Photo/WeChat ID: sh-jiading]
The event commenced with a vibrant dragon dance, accompanied by the rhythmic beats of drums and gongs, captivating the audience with a colorful and lively performance.
During the event, teachers introduced the traditional customs of the Dragon Head Raising Day to the international students. Many people get a haircut on this day, believing it dispels bad luck.
Children eagerly line up to receive haircuts on the Dragon Head Raising Day. [Photo/WeChat ID: sh-jiading]
"I learned that in China, many children get their hair cut on this day, as it's believed to bring good luck in the year ahead. I've never heard of this tradition before. It's quite fascinating," said Nazkha Dzannia, an Indonesian student.
The participants enjoy Nanxiang xiaolongbao, a traditional delicacy in Jiading. [Photo/WeChat ID: sh-jiading]
The participants also enjoyed Nanxiang xiaolongbao (a type of steamed bun), a traditional delicacy in Jiading. "I already love Chinese food, and the texture of these Nanxiang xiaolongbao is very unqique. I've had quite a few of them," said Indonesian student Christa Justine.
Shen Yue, the organizer, expressed her hope that through such activities, people can gain a better understanding of traditional Chinese culture, as the dragon holds a special place in Chinese tradition, symbolizing auspiciousness and happiness.