On the afternoon of March 1, the 2026 Zhaoqing Intangible Cultural Heritage (ICH) Parade kicked off at East Gate Square of the Seven Star Crags, one of the city's most iconic scenic spots. Covering a 3.2-kilometer route from East Gate Square (东门广场) to Paifang Square (牌坊广场), this year's parade was the largest in the city's history, featuring 25 themed formations and over 1,100 performers.
The procession showcased an array of representative ICH projects, ranging from national to municipal levels, with Zhaoqing's hallmark Guangfu culture taking center stage. Guangfu, a term referring to the Cantonese-speaking heartland in the Pearl River Delta, is deeply rooted in the region's traditional customs and heritage. The parade program blended vibrant folk dances based on local traditions with themed formations celebrating contemporary life and spirit.
In a striking fusion of tradition and modernity, the parade also featured interactive displays of robots and robotic dogs, injecting elements of AI technology and pop culture into the centuries-old festivities. Together, these diverse performances offered residents and visitors a captivating cultural experience—one that beautifully combined the festive charm of Guangfu New Year traditions with a dynamic sense of innovation.
Author | He Fengyu
Photo | Zhaoqing Fabu
