On the 2nd and 7th days of the lunar calendar, the Niuzhuang Bazaar in Dongying of East China's Shandong province becomes a hub of activity, attracting the largest crowds of the year.

The Niuzhuang Bazaar is teeming with stalls and visitors with the approach of Spring Festival. [Photo/Ai Dongying app]

This lively marketplace extends from the east to the west of the village, transforming what is usually a children's playground into a bustling commercial center.

Locals from surrounding areas gather, bringing with them a variety of fresh agricultural products and handcrafted goods, offering a vivid snapshot of rural life. The air is filled with the sounds of vendors hawking their wares, the hum of negotiations, and the sizzling sound of traditional snacks being made. The market features an array of fresh vegetables, seasonal fruits, and hand-prepared specialties such as fried radish balls and water-fried buns. Vendors, many of whom begin preparing as early as 5:00 am, eagerly anticipate the busy day ahead.

The steaming snacks are freshly cooked and ready to serve. [Photo/Ai Donying app]

The strawberries brought by local vendors to the Niuzhuang Bazaar are large, fresh, and bursting with flavor. [Photo/Ai Donying app]

As the day progresses and the crowds grow, the market's carefully arranged layout ensures smooth movement and fosters a unique cultural exchange. Shoppers excitedly barter with vendors, while artisans skillfully demonstrate their crafts, such as making sesame salt or weaving baskets.

Agricultural products are neatly arranged in handwoven baskets, ready for visitors to choose from. [Photo/Ai Donying app]

Despite the winter chill and occasional snowfall, the energy at the market remains undiminished. It offers a glimpse into the region's rich cultural heritage, where the spirit of community and tradition thrives.

Dongying invites visitors to experience the warmth and vitality of this cherished winter tradition.