Pizhou Bamboo Horse Race, commonly known as "Bamboo Horse Dance" and "Bamboo Horse Meeting", is a traditional folk dance in Pizhou. The performers, with horses or kylins made of bamboo and paper hanging from their waists, play the roles of historical figures in various formations. According to "Pizhou Chronicle", Pizhou Bamboo Horse Race started in the first year of Jiaqing Emperor in the Qing Dynasty (1796), with a history of more than 200 years.
Pizhou bamboo horse props are made from bamboo splits as the outer shell, with colorful paper pasted into the shape of a horse, hence the name "bamboo horse". The rider ties the bamboo horse to the waist, followed by a groom (as a pair). The leading rider rides on a kylin and wears armors, leopard coat, colorful pants, and false beard. The groom dressed in soldier's clothing carries a sword on back, holds up colorful dragon and phoenix flags and dances with the horse. Performers must dance powerfully, always swaying and changing position quickly to present an imposing power that shakes the mountains and rivers.
After several generations of innovation, percussion, suona horn, singing and other forms of accompaniment are added to the folk dance, gradually transforming it into a folk dance featuring singing and dancing as well as vigorous vibes. It implies the chivalrous spirit of generations of bamboo horse artists, and is a symbol of serving one's family and country, cultivating one's moral character, and helping the weak. The bamboo horse has been part of many people's lives, conveying the heroic spirit in Xuzhou.
