Things get lively during the Intangible Cultural Heritage Gala. [Photo/WeChat account of Wenlyu Alshaa]

The main event of the Cultural and Natural Heritage Day celebration – the Intangible Cultural Heritage Gala – was held on June 6 in Alshaa League, North China's Inner Mongolia autonomous region.

The gala featured performances of national-level intangible cultural heritage such as the Savardan dance and outstanding regional intangible cultural heritage projects – offering a captivating visual and auditory spectacle of traditional culture to the audience.

In addition to the gala, a series of exciting activities were organized in Alshaa to celebrate Cultural and Natural Heritage Day. Their aim was to promote cultural exchanges, preserve heritage and engage the community in traditional practices.

The evocative Heicheng Ruins always fascinate visitors. [Photo/WeChat account of Wenlyu Alshaa]

An event called Practical Teaching Activities, held at Alshaa's Heicheng Ruins – the remains of an important trading stop along the Silk Road – provided an educational experience about historical sites.

The Protecting Cultural Relics, Inheriting Civilization Photo Exhibition and the Intangible Heritage Market showcased the region's diverse cultural heritage.

Visitors also had the opportunity to participate in hands-on experiences like enamel filigree painting, making lacquer art and traditional wrestling in the Shali Bor style.

Sports enthusiasts were able to take part in competitions such as traditional archery and Mongolian wrestling – or the more cerebral could have a go at Chinese chess and Mongolian Chess – at various venues in Alshaa Right Banner.

These events were said to not only entertain, but educate folks about the rich history and traditions of Alshaa.