Expats celebrate Lantern Festival in Pingshan

A cool drizzle did not deter residents of Pingshan from joining a parade and an intangible cultural heritage market on Feb. 12 to celebrate the Lantern Festival.

The kylin dance parade proceeds through Pingshan on Feb. 12. Photos courtesy of Pingshan Subdistrict International Block unless otherwise stated

The event, organized by Pingshan Subdistrict, showcased eight kylin dance teams, two lion dance teams, and yangge dancers in a lively parade that began at the Dongjiang Column Memorial Hall, winding through Dongzong Road, Dongsheng Street, and Jianshe Road before arriving at the Pingshan Cinema and Theater. The vibrant kylin and lion teams, along with the Chinese trio of gods representing good fortune, prosperity, and longevity, colored the old streets of Pingshan, creating a joyous festive atmosphere.

Chinese and expat residents pose for a photo with traditional Chinese snacks during the event in Pingshan District on Feb. 12.

In Chinese culture, kylins are revered as auspicious symbols, representing protection, prosperity, success, and longevity. The Pingshan kylin dance boasts a history spanning over 300 years and is recognized as a provincial-level intangible cultural heritage item. Festive occasions in the district are often enlivened by these dynamic kylin dance parades and performances.

Expats are attracted to a variety of tanghulu, a traditional Chinese snack that consists of skewered fruit, at the market.

The Pingshan Subdistrict International Block invited several expats from the U.S. and Brazil to participate in the Feb. 12 event. During the parade, many expats were captivated by the vibrant and swift movements of the kylin dancers and eagerly snapped photos, even while holding umbrellas.

Henry from Brazil writes the Chinese character “Fu.”

At the market, visitors indulged in a variety of snacks, including glutinous rice balls, Hakka cuisine, tanghulu (a traditional Chinese snack that consists of skewered fruit), and sugar paintings. Attendees also engaged in making handicrafts, solving lantern riddles, and writing the Chinese character “Fu” to symbolize happiness, blessings, and good fortune for the new year. 

Keyth Cristina Nascimento Guimarães from Brazil (L) and other visitors hold lacquer fans at the market.

A Brazilian expat named Henry remarked that the entire event was wonderful, allowing him to experience many traditional Chinese folk customs and feel the lively atmosphere of Pingshan.

Jane from the U.S. holds a snake-shaped sugar painting at the market.

“The event provides an easy and enjoyable way for people to learn more about Pingshan’s culture. While Pingshan is known as a hub of innovation, here innovation blends with tradition, offering a scenario to showcase what Pingshan truly represents,” said Keyth Cristina Nascimento Guimarães from Brazil, who is a Shenzhen Global Communication Ambassador.

The Chinese trio of gods representing good fortune, prosperity, and longevity leads the parade in Pingshan on Feb. 12. Photo from Pingshan Media Center