THE Xiangshi “Zha Can Hua” festival has recently kicked off in Wuzhen, Tongxiang City, Zhejiang Province, bringing the ancient water town’s rich silk culture to life.

Dating back to the Tang Dynasty (618–907), the festival is a traditional folk event held annually from Qingming to Grain Rain — both Chinese solar terms — lasting about half a month. Originally observed by silkworm farmers who prayed for a good harvest, the celebration — dubbed the “Carnival of Jiangnan Water Towns” — has evolved into a vibrant mix of temple fairs, folk performances, waterborne competitions, and spring outings.(SD News)