Since January 10, Qiyueqiao Village in Lichuan, Hubei Province, has been hosting its daily Paotang Banquet – a vibrant winter tradition of the Tujia ethnic group. Visitors gather to watch village parades and folk performances, and to enjoy dishes made from freshly prepared pork. It's loud, warm, and full of life.

Huge pots bubble with fresh pork, local vegetables and selenium-rich potatoes, filling the air with rich, sour and spicy aromas that linger long after the meal. The festivities run through February 11. In Lichuan, winter is not quiet – it's fire, food and festivity.