From June 8th to 10th, the 40th Wudalianchi Volcano Holy Water Festival 2024 kicked off. A series of folk festival activities featuring volcanic mineral spring characteristics attracted nearly 100,000 tourists and local residents to gather at the foot of the volcanoes and share in the holy water carnival.
Starting from the 8th, 13 highly ethnic, folk and regional festival events were launched successively, including the opening ceremony, water-worshipping grand ceremony, ethnic customs display, song and dance performances, electronic music bonfire party, and local intangible cultural heritage (ICH) food tasting.
On the night of the 9th, the Volcano Holy Water Festival venue was bathed in bright starlight, and the opening gala was filled with a joyous and harmonious atmosphere. As night fell, a grand art performance kicked off amid the eager anticipation of the crowd.
The opening dance Mother Is China was as picturesque as a poem. With graceful movements, the dancers vividly interpreted the greatness and maternal love of the Chinese nation. Ethnic singer Wulanjiaya took the stage with her song I Love You, Grassland. Her clear and soulful voice seemed to embody the vastness and beauty of the grasslands. A group of Korean children presented the dance Spring Water Waters the Flower of Happiness; their innocent smiles and lively moves conveyed the joyous mood to every audience member.
Internet-famous singer He Jingxuan’s Romantic Love pushed the gala to another climax.
The magic show amazed the audience, drawing them into a world full of fantasy and surprises.
Singer Wulantuya’s performance of Horse Whip sent the gala to its peak. Her sonorous and stirring voice seemed to transport the audience to a wild and passionate grassland.
The entire gala was brimming with joy and harmony. People of all ethnic groups sang and danced together to celebrate the festival. That night, the Volcano Holy Water Festival became the most cherished memory in their hearts.
With a centuries-old heritage, this year’s festival focused on reviving traditional programs, enhancing public participation and experience. It has evolved into an integrated festival that perfectly blends traditional culture with modern civilization, and tourism with culture, offering tourists a feast of cultural and tourism delights.
