Eight large iron pots form an octagon around a central pot at Lutai market in Tianjin's Ninghe district. [Photo/WeChat account: NH_television]
A national agricultural products fair will open at Lutai market in Tianjin's Ninghe district from Oct 17 to 18, celebrating Double Ninth Festival.
The fair's highlight is the eight large iron pots arranged in an octagon around a central pot, using traditional stoves and open kitchens to preserve the authentic feel of firewood, iron pots, and steam.
The dishes are from different regions like Hainan, Qinghai, and Jilin provinces, offering flavors from across the country.
A grand "eight pots opening ceremony" will be held daily at 11 am, with eight chefs lifting the lids one by one and calling out in local dialects. Visitors can taste small portions and buy the same ingredients at the exhibition area.
The fair will feature 180 booths, showcasing specialty products from across China alongside Ninghe local goods such as Yuelong red sweet potato, Qilihai river crab, and Ninghe rice. All products are supplied directly from their places of origin, with livestreaming to support farmers.
Alongside 42 stalls offering snacks and souvenirs, the festival will feature folk performances, intangible cultural heritage shows, festival-themed activities, and free health consultations.