Every two weeks, the quiet nights of Deqing County in Zhejiang Province transform into a stage of vibrant cultural exchange. Since June, residents of a small town in Huzhou City have gathered for an open-air “village karaoke” contest, where farmers, students, and elders alike take turns showcasing their vocal talents under the stars.
The event gained international attention when a foreign media representative from CGTN's ChinaUpClose series joined the festivities, singing alongside locals. Organizers emphasize the program’s role in bridging urban-rural divides and preserving folk music traditions. “It’s not about competition—it’s about sharing joy through music,” explained a community leader during the event.
Analysts note such grassroots initiatives align with broader efforts to revitalize rural culture while creating new opportunities for cultural tourism. The phenomenon has sparked interest among global music enthusiasts and researchers studying community-building through art.
Reference(s):
cgtn.com