A performer dressed as the Chinese "God of Wealth" joins the procession during the Spring Festival Cultural Temple Fair in Hohhot. [Photo/Inner Mongolia news network]

Folk traditions lit up Hohhot, capital of North China's Inner Mongolia autonomous region, on Feb 22 as the 2026 Spring Festival Cultural Temple Fair opened in its historic Saishang Old Street block.

Blending intangible cultural heritage with modern performances and immersive parades, the fair features highlights such as the "Eight Immortals" folk procession, daily Errentai and Jin Opera shows, and a Lantern Festival finale with dragon and lion dances.

Traditional cultural performances draw large crowds during the Spring Festival Cultural Temple Fair. [Photo/Inner Mongolia news network]

A dragon dance performance is staged during the Spring Festival Cultural Temple Fair. [Photo/Inner Mongolia news network]

Local yangko dances and stilt walking share the stage with southern lion and yingge dances, showcasing a dynamic cross-regional celebration.

Running through Lantern Festival, which falls on March 3, the event integrates heritage displays with cultural tourism and interactive experiences, offering residents and visitors a special Year of the Horse celebration.

The Spring Festival Cultural Temple Fair attracts many tourists to the Saishang Old Street block. [Photo/Inner Mongolia news network]