In order to continue the memory of centuries old folk customs, show the achievements of urban renewal, and let residents and tourists have a happy and peaceful New Year, the top Qingdao New Year Festival, Turnip•Yuanxiao•Sugar Ball Fair was officially opened on February 18 in Dabaodao Cultural Leisure Block, Shibei District.

As one of the important folk festivals of Qingdao New Year, the Qingdao Turnip•Yuanxiao•Sugar Ball Fair has been passed down for hundreds of years. In 2024, Qingdao Turnip•Yuanxiao•Sugar Ball Fair will be held around the theme of "Liveliness, China-Chic style and Shibei's Atmosphere". The opening ceremony incorporates modern elements into traditional culture, allowing the audience to experience the enduring charm of Chinese traditional culture. The leaders and guests at the event were invited to turn the "Fu" character device of Li Wenling's Paper Cuttings, a municipal intangible cultural heritage, 180 degrees back, implying "Happiness is here", marking the opening of the 2024 Qingdao Turnip•Yuanxiao•Sugar Ball Fair.

On the afternoon of February 18, the Turnip Carving Competition, a reserved program of Turnip•Yuanxiao•Sugar Ball Fair, was held at Yizhou Road Square as scheduled. 16 well-known carving masters showcased their exquisite skills on site, using carving knives to "carve" exquisite turnip carving works.

This year, Shibei District also invited Tianjin's intangible cultural heritage "Gegu Changle Old Stilt" to showcase the intangible cultural heritage skills that have been passed down for over 600 years on site for citizens and tourists. The live audience cheered incessantly!

The 2024 Qingdao Turnip•Yuanxiao•Sugar Ball Fair will last until February 25. Welcome citizens, tourists and friends to visit!

(By Yuan Yu)