A performer with a mask performs Tibet opera in Potala palace square to celebrate the Shoton Festival for which Tibetan opera is a major part of its activities, August 12, 2007. Shoton Festival, meaning having yogurt in Tibetan language, is one traditional religious festival with a long history in Tibet. In order to respect and preserve Tibetan customs, the local traditional festivals like Tibetan New Year and Shoton Festival have been listed as official holidays for people in the Tibetan Autonomous Region. [Photo: Xinhua]