Water-splashing carnival drives away summer heat

 Video by Sun Yuchen

A 65-day water-splashing carnival commenced at the “Splendid China•China Folk Culture Villages” theme park in Nanshan District on Saturday evening. This event offers tourists a refreshing and enjoyable experience during hot summer nights.

Reveler splash water into the sky to celebrate the 28th Water-splashing Carnival at the Splendid China • China Folk Culture Villages theme park in Nanshan District. The event was launched July 1 and will last through Sept. 3. Photos by courtesy of  Splendid China • China Folk Culture Villages

The Water-splashing Festival, recognized as one of the first national intangible cultural heritages, stands as the most significant and joyous traditional celebration of the Dai ethnic group. This year marks the 28th edition of Splendid China’s annual hosting of the water-splashing carnival.

A tourist poses for a photo with an actress dressing in the costume of the Dai ethnic group.

Throughout the carnival, attendees are treated to an array of captivating theme activities, including Dai people culture shows, electric music parties, girl group dances, and mesmerizing performances of intangible cultural heritage events. Additionally, a vibrant stall street has been set up within the theme park, offering a diverse range of culinary delights such as Chinese hamburgers, fried yogurt, Zibo barbecue, glutinous rice cakes, Yakitori, and stinky tofu, alongside an assortment of exquisite handicrafts.

Actors dress in the costume of the Dai people play waist drum at a water-splashing carnival parade.

Visitors can also indulge in a 320,000-square-meter light show, explore a remarkable giant scarecrow exhibition, enjoy captivating dancing and singing performances, or engage in quality family time at the newly enhanced children’s water world within the theme park.

Time: 4:20 p.m.-9:30 p.m., July 1-Sept. 3

Venue: Splendid China•China Folk Culture Villages, 9003 Shennan Boulevard, Nanshan District (南山区深南大道9003号)

Metro: Line 1 to OCT East Station (侨城东站), Exit B