Performers in different colors skate on ice in Summer Palace/ Du Yang from Chinanews.com

A special ice skating show, what was once an annual event held before the Spring Festival to entertain the emperor of Qing Dynasty, was staged Saturday in the Summer Palace, an ensemble of waters and gardens in Beijing, Chinanews.com reported.

Professional ice skaters wore differently colored uniforms to represent different divisions of the imperial army, known as the eight banners. It used to be a royal activity, but now visitors have the opportunity to experience the traditional custom.