An annual sheep fighting competition entices residents in Juancheng county of East China's Shandong province on Feb 15. [Photo provided to chinadaily.com.cn]

　　As an annual sheep fighting competition kicked off on Feb 15 in Juancheng county of Shandong province, the sounds of drums and gongs resounded as local residents gathered for an unparalleled folk culture feast.

　　An annual sheep fighting competition entices residents in Juancheng county of East China's Shandong province on Feb 15. [Photo provided to chinadaily.com.cn]

　　At Shuncheng village under Penglou town, sheep “athletes“ from different counties and districts in the surrounding area converged for a peak showdown of their strength and skills.

　　As the competition officially began at 10 am, two majestic fighting sheep — full of energy and fighting spirit like two brave warriors — entered the arena under the guidance of their owners.

　　With the referee's command, the two sheep instantly charged at each other, their horns colliding and making a loud bang, making the audience nervous and anticipating the best.

　　Tang Heyan, a sheep fighting fan, said the local folk activity of fighting sheep has been handed down for generations, noting that in ancient times, people often used the bravery of sheep to symbolize the harvest and prosperity of the coming year, while nowadays, it has become an indispensable cultural feast during the Spring Festival holiday in Penglou.

　　“It not only carries people's longing for a better life, but also showcases the positive and brave spirit of the residents in our town,“ he said.

　　More importantly, people can get together and conduct trade, selling their goods and services, Tang noted.