The 2024 Qingdao Spring Festival Rural Cultural Tourism Festival kicks off in the ancient town of Jimo, Qingdao on Jan 18. [Photo/Dazhong Daily]

East China's Shandong kicked off the rural culture and tourism festival on Jan 18, with 16 cities across the province participating in the event, which will last until March 11.

The launch ceremony in Shandong's Qingdao took place in the ancient city of Jimo and featured lively and festive drum performances, locally-distinct folk performances, and intangible cultural heritage shows, eliciting bursts of applause.

During the two-month event, more than 800 distinctive cultural and tourism activities tailored toward the general public and tourists will be held throughout Qingdao. The activities will showcase the new look of rural areas and are expected to invigorate the urban and rural cultural tourism market as well as enrich the spiritual and cultural life of the people. Friends from all over the world are welcome to come to Qingdao to experience the festive atmosphere, enjoy the folk customs, and celebrate the Spring Festival.