Spring Festival lantern fairs light up Shenzhen

Lantern fairs during the Spring Festival holiday are a must-see event, deeply rooted in Chinese traditional culture tracing back to the Han Dynasty (202 B.C.-220 A.D.). Elaborate lantern displays with traditional activities like riddle guessing and dragon dances symbolize brightness and hope for the new year.

OH Bay

Dates: Through Feb. 14

Venue: OH Bay, Qianhai

Metro: Line 5 to Linhai Station, Exit B2

A lantern installation at OH Bay. Lin Jianping

A spectacular lantern fair inspired by the beloved animation “Heaven Official’s Blessing” has illuminated the OH Bay. The enchanting show promises a unique and immersive experience for attendees, boasting approximately 3,000 intricately designed light installations that bring the world of “Heaven Official’s Blessing” to life.

A scene from the “Heaven Official’s Blessing” themed lantern festival at OH Bay. Lin Jianping

The transformed Ferris wheel with four-color theme cabins enhances the experience.

OCT Harbor

Dates: Through Feb. 16

Venue: Coconut Grove Beach, OCT Harbor, Nanshan District

Metro: Line 9 to Shenzhen Bay Park Station, Exit E

An installation at last year’s lantern fair at OCT Harbor. File photo

Explore over 40 sets of intangible cultural heritage lanterns in a dazzling sea of lights covering 2,000 square meters. Enjoy traditional delicacies and activities like riddle guessing, laser shows, and more.

‘Gankeng Fantasy Night’

Dates: Through March 9

Venue: Gankeng Ancient Town, Longgang District

Metro: Line 10 to Gankeng Station, Exit C; then walk 970 meters

“Gankeng Fantasy Night” debuts at Gankeng Ancient Town and will last for three consecutive years at a charming farm full of pastoral beauty. The event features 10 themed light zones, including Harvest Picking, Pastoral Scenery, Dreamy Forest, Moonlight over the Lotus Pond, Insect World, Dolphin World, and more.

During the event, classical dance performances, pop songs, and other exciting shows will be staged at the farm, weaving a dreamlike chapter of the Chinese New Year, childlike wonder, and romance for visitors.

Wenbo Palace Lantern Fair

Dates: Through Feb. 23

Venue: Wenbo Palace, Longgang District

Metro: Line 5 to Changlong Station, Exit A; then walk 1.2 km

Experience 26 sets of giant lanterns in an area of 30,000 square meters, showcasing traditional and creative designs. Enjoy Hanfu parades, clown parades, national cuisines, and more.

Dapeng Fortress

Dates: Throughout the Spring Festival holiday

Venue: Dapeng Fortress, Longgang District

Visitors can immerse themselves in a lantern exhibition at Dapeng Fortress, showcasing the 18 featured intangible heritage projects of Dapeng New Area through lanterns. This exhibition offers a unique opportunity for visitors to delve deeper into Dapeng’s intangible cultural heritage.

Huaqiangbei Pedestrian Street

Dates: Through Feb. 12

Venue: Northern section of Huaqiangbei Pedestrian Street, Futian District

Metro: Line 3 or 7 to Huaxin Station

The 4th “Festively Decorated Lanterns Welcoming the Spring” event is scheduled to illuminate the northern section of Huaqiangbei Pedestrian Street.

This event showcases a fusion of traditional Chinese intangible cultural heritage lantern techniques with modern technology. Festivities will include consumer promotions, electronics expos, and new energy vehicle showcases, aiming to offer a fresh spring experience blending Chinese New Year traditions, cultural displays, entertainment activities, and shopping opportunities.

Splendid China Lantern Fair

Venue: Splendid China ● China Folk Culture Villages, Nanshan District

Metro: Line 1 to OCT Station, Exit D

An installation at a previous lantern fair at Splendid China · China Folk Culture Villages. File photo

The lantern fair offers a truly magnificent experience, spanning 530,000 square meters. Visitors can explore the world of intangible heritage lanterns, wander through the bustling market, and partake in the joyous celebrations of the traditional Chinese New Year! With four distinct thematic areas and numerous lantern displays adorning the entire park, this festival creates a lively and festive ambiance, establishing itself as a must-visit landmark for unforgettable moments in 2025!

An installation at the ongoing lantern fair at Splendid China · China Folk Culture Villages. China News Service