In Baisha County, Hainan, the annual ‘March 3rd’ Festival transformed a serene lake into a splashy battleground this week as locals and tourists dove into a fish-catching contest that’s equal parts tradition and TikTok-worthy fun. 🌊 Participants rolled up sleeves (and pants!) to chase slippery fish with bare hands, turning the event into a cross-generational celebration of Li and Miao heritage.
‘My kids thought it was a video game at first!’ laughed Zhang Wei, a visitor from Guangzhou, as his daughter high-fived a local elder after snagging a wriggling catch. The festival, rooted in ancient farming practices, now bridges generations with laughter and muddy knees.
Organizers say the event—part of Hainan’s efforts to preserve cultural identity—has seen record turnout this year, with over 2,000 participants. ‘It’s not about who catches the most,’ said local guide Lin Mei, ‘but who leaves with the biggest smile.’ 📸 Pro tip: Next year’s festival dates are already trending on Douyin!
