On Dec 27, the 2025 "Shi Chao" (Lion Dance Super League) Carnival was launched at Huacheng Square in Tianhe district, Guangzhou. The event, themed around Guangdong's "High-quality Development Project for Counties, Towns, and Villages", featured lion dance competitions, brand exhibitions, and a public market.

Crowds pack into Guangzhou's Huacheng Square to watch the lion dance competitions at the 2025 Shi Chao Carnival. [Photo/WeChat account: tianhefabu]

Thirty-two top teams representing 18 provinces, Hong Kong, Macao, and all 11 districts of Guangzhou took part in the finals of the 2025 China Lion King Super Challenge. Following assessment by professional judges, the Gold Award was jointly presented to the Shenzhen Fuhai Qiaotou Lion Dance Troupe, the Guangdong-Hong Kong-Macao Joint Team, and the Tengxian Lion Dance Troupe of Guangxi, illustrating how intangible cultural heritage can thrive in contemporary urban settings.

Lion dance performers compete in the 2025 China Lion King Super Challenge final. [Photo/WeChat account: tianhefabu]

The event also featured presentations on smart agriculture development and Guangzhou geographical indication products. A public market offered specialty goods from various city districts, alongside consumer discounts provided by participating banks.