Traditional crafts fair displays cultural riches in Shandong

A stallholder makes a cartoon figure at the fair. [Photo provided to chinadaily.com.cn]

In a celebration of cultural wares and heritage, the second Binzhou Traditional Crafts Fair started on March 11, drawing over 100 artisans who ably demonstrated their skills.

The fair, with its theme "Gathering by the Yellow River, Enjoying Handmade Abundance", was a platform to show off intangible cultural heritage from the Shandong region.

Huimin clay dolls go on show at the fair. [Photo provided to chinadaily.com.cn]

The event unfolded in Huimin county's Zaohuli town, where four distinct exhibition zones were set up, each narrating a story of tradition and creativity.

The Handmade Abundance zone offered a marketplace for great handmade goods, while the Doll Gathering zone displayed an array of charming clay dolls, a local specialty.

The Traditional Market zone provided a veritable journey through time with its array of vintage items and folk performances. Meanwhile, the Youth Market presented innovative craft designs by university students, alongside trendy activities for visitors.

Adding to the fair's appeal were the surrounding farm stays, which invited visitors to partake in traditional banquets, reprising the local custom of communal feasting. The experiences not only offered a taste of local hospitality, but were also a chance to indulge in the culinary delights of farmhouse cuisine.

In a bid to make the traditional culture resonate more with today's visitors, the fair also hosted an "Outstanding Exhibits" competition. The contest celebrated the creativity of participants – highlighting their efforts to blend tradition with innovation, ensuring that the legacy of Shandong's crafts not only endures but thrives in the modern era. (Edited by Fan Yuanyuan)