The final of the 2026 "Colorful Guizhou" Folk Song Competition was held at the Guizhou Cultural Center in Guiyang on Oct 20–21, bringing together performers to celebrate the province's rich musical traditions.

Performers in ethnic costumes showcase Guizhou's folk music at the 2026 "Colorful Guizhou" Folk Song Competition final. [Photo/Guiyang news network]

Known as a land of song in China, Guizhou is home to folk music heritage, including Miao Flying Song, Dong Grand Song, and Bouyei Love Song. Passed down through generations, these melodies reflect local communities' history, emotions, and cultural identity.

Since the competition launched in July, performers advanced through preliminary rounds at the county, county-level city, and district levels to a provincial semifinal.

A total of 40 entries reached the final, with 20 competing in each of two categories: traditional folk songs and newly adapted folk songs.

Performers in ethnic costumes present a wonderful folk song performance. [Photo/Guiyang news network]

Performers in ethnic costumes sang in local languages with rich vocal harmonies, bringing everyday scenes from ethnic communities to the stage. Newly adapted works blended traditional melodies with modern arrangements, creating fresh interpretations while preserving their cultural roots.

Alongside awards for outstanding performances, the competition introduced special honors for folk song masters and young learners, encouraging intergenerational transmission.

Building on the tourism campaign "Travel with Songs", Guizhou plans to bring performances to scenic areas and villages, using folk music to connect cultural heritage with tourism and showcase the enduring appeal of traditional songs.

Performers in ethnic costumes bring folk art to life. [Photo/Guiyang news network]