**Joy and Festivities Mark Lunar New Year Across China**
As the first day of the Lunar New Year unfolds, the country of China is adorned in bright lights, lanterns and vibrant colors while warm waves of festive energy sweep across the land. This year being the Year of the Dragon, the celebratory atmosphere is filled with dragon dances and warm greetings as people usher in the new year.
In Tianjin Ancient Culture Street, the historic district known as the “Hometown of Jinmen” has come alive with vibrant decorations and is bustling with lively folk cultural performances. Tourists from all over the world are flocking to the area to witness the beautiful lanterns, paper-cuts, and lantern accessories that adorn the antique streets.
Not far in Qingdao City, Shandong Province, a folk culture temple fair at Tianhou Palace is exhibiting dragon dances and prayer performances, adding to the festive celebrations in the region.
The country is alive with rich New Year traditions and customs, from “village evenings” in rural areas to historic and cultural performances that immerse people in the local culture.
In Guangxi’s Liuzhou Sanjiang Dong Autonomous County, the “Village Gala” comes alive with reed pipe melodies and lively dance performances, showcasing the joy and freedom of the holiday season.
The charm of the New Year is evident in the Northeast as well, where “New Year red” and “ice and snow white” colors blend and create a unique Spring Festival experience. At the Yabuli Sunshine Ski Resort in Heilongjiang Province, families are embracing the New Year with hearty joy as they embark on skiing adventures and relish in unique celebrations.
Meanwhile, the Shanghai Museum is hosting the “Star of China Sanxingdui·Jinsha Ancient Shu Civilization Exhibition” where visitors can immerse themselves in rich cultural experiences to welcome the New Year.
The celebratory energy extends beyond the borders of China as well, where the boom in outbound travel has led to an increase in the number of cross-border seats on the China-Laos Railway international passenger trains. Vibrant train carriages decorated with traditional Chinese New Year themes are carrying passengers on a joyous journey to usher in the New Year.
Back in China, rural B&B bookings have surged during the Spring Festival period, and the popularity of bookings arrived earlier than the previous year, signaling a strong interest in rural revitalization and a celebration of cultural authenticity.
The Spring Festival also marks a time of increased travel, with the large-scale cruise ship “Aida·Modu” setting sail from Shanghai Wusongkou International Cruise Port, carrying thousands of passengers on a memorable New Year journey at sea.
In Gansu Province, vibrant celebrations are taking place in various villages, where people gather to share New Year’s Eve dinner and participate in cultural performances, showcasing the enthusiasm and optimism for the Year of the Dragon.
The New Year also brings new beginnings in various industries, such as the oil production industry where workers are dedicated to ensuring the nation’s energy security during the festive season. The C919 domestically produced large aircraft serves Spring Festival transportation this year, showcasing the nation’s dedication to safe and efficient air travel.
As the country embraces the Year of the Dragon, an air of hope and new beginnings fills the hearts of people across China, signaling a strong and vibrant start to the new year.