Chang'an Lantern Festival brings sparkling lights, festive cheer

The Chang'an Lantern Festival commenced on the Little New Year, or "xiaonian" in China, which falls on Jan 22 this year.

As the crowd counted down and cheered, dazzling lanterns illuminated three iconic landmarks in Xi'an: the Daming Palace National Heritage Park, the Xi'an City Wall, and the Tang Paradise, marking the start of the festival.

In a symbolic gesture of cultural connection, lanterns representing the shared heritage of ancient civilizations were also lit in Cairo, Rome, and Athens, uniting the four ancient capitals in celebration of friendship and tradition.

At Daming Palace National Heritage Park, 13 exquisite lantern installations and five interactive parades bring to life the grandeur of the Tang Dynasty (618-907), which spanned 240 years under 17 emperors. Visitors are immersed in a multisensory journey showcasing the vibrant cultural exchange of the era.

The Xi'an City Wall Lantern Festival, a cherished tradition for over 30 years, features 38 dazzling lanterns inspired by national treasures, reviving museum artifacts in a vivid display of light and art.

Meanwhile, the Tang Paradise offers an enchanting experience with 40 intricate lantern displays and two themed parades, creating a dreamlike landscape of light. Each step unveils a unique scene, offering visitors a magical celebration of Chinese culture.