The 22nd China Fishing Season Festival kicked off in Xiangshan county of Ningbo, East China's Zhejiang province on Sept 16.

The festival, part of the second Chinese Farmers' Harvest Festival, was held on the same day that the fishing ban ends, meaning fishermen can start fishing again.

On the day, nearly 2,000 fishing boats, accompanied by thunderous gong and drum beats, set sail at Shipu port.

Fishermen threw up such a grand ceremony, praying for happiness and harvest.

A grand ceremony is held to mark the 22nd China Fishing Season Festival in Xiangshan county of Ningbo, East China's Zhejiang province on Sept 16. [Photo/cnnb.com.cn]

Nearly 2,000 fishing boats set sail at Shipu port in Xiangshan county of Ningbo, East China's Zhejiang province on Sept 16 as the fishing ban ends. [Photo/cnnb.com.cn]