Thousands of people flocked to Cheung Chau today to enjoy the boisterous Jiao Festival.

The festival, listed on the national list of intangible cultural heritage, originated from a traditional ritual to expel bad spirits.

Festival highlights include the Grand Parade and a bun scrambling competition.

In the afternoon, children balancing on poles and dressed in colourful costumes were paraded around the island along with lion dancers.

Traditional steamed buns, a symbol of well-being, were sold at Cheung Chau shops.

The annual Bun Scrambling Competition will be held tonight with 12 finalists climbing a tower to snatch as many buns as possible.