Children show off their qipao designs at Qinghefang Street in Hangzhou on Oct 22. The qipao, also known as the cheongsam, is popular for its body-hugging design that accentuates the female form. [Photo provided to ehangzhou.gov.cn]

People in Hangzhou, capital of Zhejiang province, flocked to the historic Qinghefang Street on Oct 22 as the much-anticipated Global Qipao Festival officially began.

The event, which runs from Oct 22 to 25 and is meant to celebrate Hangzhou's prosperous nighttime economy, features a variety of immersive performances, fashion shows, cultural activities, and themed exhibitions.