The second Shangsi Festival kicked off at the Huaqing Palace scenic area in Xi'an, capital of Northwest China's Shaanxi province, on April 11. Also known as the Double Third Festival, the Shangsi Festival is celebrated on the third day of the third lunar month.

The second Shangsi Festival kicks off at the Huaqing Palace on April 11. [Photo provided to en.xa.gov.cn]

On the day, 24 hanfu enthusiasts staged Tang Dynasty (618-907) hanfu fashion shows and interacted with visitors while presenting cultural and creative gifts. Many visitors, also dressed in hanfu, visited the scenic area to enjoy spring outings and go sightseeing.

A Tang Dynasty hanfu fashion show attracts attention. [Photo provided to en.xa.gov.cn]

To recreate the Shangsi Festival of the Tang Dynasty, the Huaqing Palace scenic area has prepared a variety of interactive activities, including flower goddess parades, poetry recitals, ancient dance performances, and imperial consort processions, offering a new tourism experience for visitors.

During the festival from April 11 to 21, visitors dressed in hanfu can enjoy free admission to Huaqing Palace.

Visitors wearing hanfu tour the Huaqing Palace. [Photo provided to en.xa.gov.cn]

Additionally, during this year's May Day holiday, Huaqing Palace will provide flower hairpins to visitors, adding to the festive atmosphere and enhancing intangible cultural heritage appreciation.

Meanwhile, Huaqing Palace will also host the first Huaqing Palace Hanfu Series Competition, which includes design, makeup, and photography categories.