Tianhe district was buzzing with activity on May 31, the Dragon Boat Festival, as the annual Zhaojing event unfolded, a longstanding tradition in the Pearl River Delta where villages exchange invitations to gather their dragon boats.

More than 150 dragon boats from 140 villages convened for Liede village's Zhaojing gathering, with another 100 or so dragon boats assembling in Shipai village for a joyous celebration.

The Liede River teems with dragon boats from neighboring villages coming together for the Zhaojing event. [Photo/WeChat account: tianhefabu]

Amidst thunderous drumbeats and dancing oars, the festive atmosphere is alive with dragon boat parades and celebrations. [Photo/WeChat account: tianhefabu]

Firecrackers are ignited to greet dragon boats arriving from distant locations. [Photo/WeChat account: tianhefabu]