The Chinese Farmers’ Harvest Festival celebrations, set to begin next month in Lankao county, Henan province, will spotlight rural vitality and agricultural achievements, a Ministry of Agriculture and Rural Affairs official said on Friday.

Lei Liugong, director of the ministry’s market and information technology department, said during a news conference in Beijing that the festival — which falls on the Autumn Equinox during the September harvest season — was established in 2018 and is the first national holiday dedicated to farmers. This year’s event will uphold the traditions of celebrating harvests, promoting culture and revitalizing rural areas.

The upcoming celebrations in Lankao county, a grain growing area, aim to showcase the country’s agricultural and rural development accomplishments, promote the national rural vitalization strategy and honor the country’s rich farming heritage, he said.

Planned activities include exhibitions, cultural performances, and entertainment events spotlighting farmers’ contributions and the importance of agriculture in Chinese society, Lei said.

Initiatives like the rural film week, storytelling sessions, and chorus and basketball competitions will be held to involve rural communities and highlight their creativity, he added.

He said the celebrations will also be a vital platform to invigorate urban and rural markets and promote consumer spending.

Events including the autumn consumer season and food tastings will be organized to promote consumer spending and create a festive atmosphere, he added.

“Currently, the summer grains and early rice have been harvested, and the overall growth of autumn grains is normal. The supply of farm produce is sufficient, providing the foundation and confidence for the festival,” he said.