While most Chinese communities celebrate lantern festivals on the 15th day of the first lunar month, Ningxi Town in Huangyan District, Taizhou City has maintained its distinctive “February 2nd Lantern Festival” for nearly 800 years since the Southern Song Dynasty. This year’s event transformed Songqu Straight Street into a dazzling spectacle of lights and cultural activities.
A Strategic Celebration Date
Local historians explain the unusual timing: “To avoid competing with other regions’元宵节 celebrations and allow visitors to attend multiple festivals, Ningxi ancestors wisely scheduled their lantern festival for the ‘Spring Dragon Festival’ on the second day of the second lunar month.” The week-long event now runs from February 2nd to 8th on the lunar calendar.
A Night of Ancient Splendor
The festival’s centerpiece – a几十米-long dragon lantern accompanied by thousands of intricate handcrafted lanterns – draws gasps from visitors. Traditional fish, rabbit, and umbrella-shaped lanterns floating along the creek create magical reflections, while illuminated Song-style architecture transports attendees back to ancient times.
Cultural Extravaganza
Beyond the luminous displays, the festival showcases vibrant intangible cultural heritage performances including dragon dances, iron-smelting fireworks, and Sichuan opera face-changing. Artisan markets and period-costume parades add to the festive atmosphere, with the grand lantern parade on February 4th standing out as a regional highlight.
Modern Recognition for Ancient Tradition
Having evolved to incorporate contemporary elements while preserving its historical essence, the Ningxi Lantern Festival earned a spot on Zhejiang’s Intangible Cultural Heritage list in 2009. This living tradition continues to bridge past and present, attracting new generations to experience its unique Song Dynasty charm.
Related Topic:
- 5 Best Places to Visit in June in the USA
- African Travel Debuts Luxury Concierge Safaris for 2025
- New Narmada River Cruise to Boost Tourism and Regional Connectivity
