On January 22, 2025, the first Hefei Xiaoyaojin Chinese New Year Lantern Festival officially began, illuminating Xiaoyaojin Park with countless lights to celebrate the Year of the Snake. The lantern festival will run until March 8, offering citizens and visitors a magical 46-day journey of light and shadow.

According to the organizer, the Luyang Cultural Tourism Group, the festival features three main themed exhibition areas: "Blessings Abound," "Chasing Dreams in Luzhou," and "Future Fantasy City." The "Blessings Abound" area creates a festive atmosphere to provide visitors with a unique Chinese New Year experience. The "Chasing Dreams in Luzhou" area delves into Hefei's rich cultural heritage, allowing visitors to relive the city's brilliant history. The "Future Fantasy City" area perfectly blends technology and imagination, showcasing the innovative charm of this lakeside city.

The lantern festival performances will be divided into special sessions: January 23-27 for intangible cultural heritage and January 29-February 4 for folk customs. During this time, performances including traditional snake lanterns, Huangmei opera, folk acrobatics, ancient colorful tricks with ropes, and the Monkey King will be featured. Additionally, the organizers have set up interactive projects such as lantern riddles, wishing activities, intangible cultural heritage experiences, and Hanfu photo sessions, allowing visitors to enjoy the festive atmosphere while celebrating with family.

A representative from Hefei's Luyang District stated that the goal is to make the Xiaoyaojin Chinese New Year Lantern Festival the most festive landmark for celebrating the Chinese New Year, the most culturally distinctive showcase of local characteristics, and the most memorable landmark for family gatherings in the city.

Source: Anhuinews.com