A Chinese opera artist performs in the Huguang Guild Hall in Beijing, China, October 11, 2024. [Photo courtesy of CMG]

The 2024 Chongyang Festival Opera Gala was held by China Media Group (CMG) on Friday, graced by many renowned Chinese opera artists.

Chongyang Festival, also known as the Double Ninth Festival, falls on the 9th day of the ninth lunar month on the Chinese lunar calendar. It fell on October 11 this year.

In Chinese folklore, the number nine is a homonym of the Chinese word "jiu," which contains the auspicious meaning of "a long and healthy life." It is an annual festival to show respect and care for the elderly throughout China.

The gala was held in the Huguang Guild Hall in Beijing, a theater with a history of 200 years. The gala saw performances from young and senior Chinese opera artists, stressing the importance of respecting and loving the elderly.