Miao Malan Festival celebrates spring romance

In the enchanting embrace of spring, Fenghuang county's Miao ethnic group in Hunan province celebrated its annual Malan Festival on the third day of the third month on the Chinese calendar, which fell on March 30.

This vibrant cultural event, steeped in centuries-old traditions, drew visitors and photographers to witness the romantic customs and lively spirit of Miao culture.

The festival is rooted in the Miao people's history as a day for young lovers to express affection and seek lifelong partnerships. Guests were warmly greeted with the iconic "gate-blocking wine drinking ceremony", where Miao women in dazzling traditional attire offered sweet rice wine and folk songs, embodying the ethnic group's legendary hospitality.