Harbin lilac festival to begin in late April

Lilac trees bloom in late April. [Photo/MY399.COM]

A festival revolving around the lilac, the city flower of Harbin, will kick off on April 30 in the "ice city" of Northeast China, as lilac trees across the city will begin blooming in a few days.

The lilac flowering period is expected to last one and a half months from late April to mid-June, as different varieties of lilac bloom at different times.

The tradition of planting lilac trees in Harbin goes back 100 years, and around 1.34 million trees of 10 varieties have been planted.

Harbin is currently promoting its famous lilac landscapes by expanding the planting area of lilac trees in parks, squares, and streets. Around 35,000 lilac trees are expected be planted in Daoli, Daowai, and Acheng districts this year.

Several other activities will also be held during the festival, including a lilac exhibition, a photography competition, and a poem and song writing activity.

The opening ceremony for the festival will be held in Qunli Lilac Park on April 30. At the ceremony, famous singer Li Shuangjiang will sing a song entitled Lilac.