The fifth Fishing Festival of Zhijiang College of Zhejiang University of Technology is held on Jan 8. [Photo/Tide News]

The fifth Fishing Festival of Zhijiang College of Zhejiang University of Technology was held on Jan 8, with teachers, students, and alumni gathering by Zaohu Lake for this campus celebration that integrates folk culture, interactive activities, and culinary delights.

A lion dance performance marked the beginning of the event, after which Jin Weiya, dean of Zhijiang College, delivered a speech reviewing the tradition of the Fishing Festival and extending new year's greetings. Following the call to start, over 20 workers pulled the net together, harvesting a total of 11.5 metric tons of fresh fish.

Activities such as the guess of the biggest fish and the alum-led fish release event were also held, with enthusiastic participation from teachers and students, creating a lively atmosphere.

The "Hometown Fish" cooking competition kicked off at noon, with faculty and student teams from various colleges preparing regional specialties, such as Sichuan-style boiled fish and Jiangnan-style steamed fish, filling the air with delightful aromas. In the cafeteria, chefs prepared the freshly catches into pickled pepper fish slices and braised fish chunks. Four tons of fresh fish were served as a complimentary feast for all attendees, and the college distributed the remaining 7.5 tons as welfare for faculty and staff.

Through a series of diverse, engaging activities, this festival enables teachers and students to experience the joy of fishing and savor delicious flavors, while fostering a campus culture of unity and gratitude.