The 2026 Centennial Lilac Poetry Festival kicked off at Baoguo Temple in Xicheng District of Beijing on Friday.

Themed "Lilac as Message, Youth as Poetry," the gathering brought together poetry lovers from around the world. Blending tradition with modern creativity, the event features poetry salons, recitals and music performances.

With roots dating back to the Ming and Qing dynasties, China's historic poetry tradition continues to bloom today, bringing this literary art into everyday life.