The traditional “horse running festival” was held in Zhugqu County, Gansu Province. Tibetan and Han people from nearby villages wearing festival costume were leading horses and mules to Pingdingguan for training,  racing and blessings. 

During the festival, Pingding Township, Zhugqu County was reechoed with the sound of firecrackers, neigh, gongs and drums. The unique festival formed Zhugqu’s unique folk custom. 

The “horse running festival” was gradually formed to commemorate local people’s victory against Qiang people’s invasion in history and warn people to be prepared for danger in times of peace. 

Activities would be held to pray for auspicious, peaceful, happy life with bumper harvest and thriving domestic animals. 

As an important festival in Zhugqu County, the “horse running festival” has become a name card, which plays a role in Zhugqu’s tourism and culture integration.