As 2026 marks the Year of the Horse, Nanjing's iconic Qinhuai Lantern Fair is going all out with a massive horse-shaped lantern that'll steal the show. Stretching over 20 meters and glowing with vibrant colors, this leaping lantern pops up right under the Ming Dynasty walls at Laomendong scenic zone. 🐎🌟
Dating back more than 1,700 years, the Qinhuai Lantern Fair is one of China's major national-level intangible cultural heritage events. Recognized as an intangible cultural heritage, it's a tradition passed down through generations – not just the lanterns themselves, but the stories and skills behind them. Since its modern revival in 1985, the festival is celebrating its 40th edition this February during the Spring Festival, aka Lunar New Year.
If you're in Nanjing (or plotting a China trip this month), you can wander through thousands of lantern displays, from traditional animal figures to high-tech light shows synced with music. Think modern LED tech meets age-old craftsmanship – perfect for those Instagram reels and TikTok stories! 📱🎶
Whether you're chasing cultural deep dives or just hunting for epic visuals, the Qinhuai Lantern Fair is a must-see. Grab some tangyuan (sweet rice balls), soak up the festive vibes, and snap that #HorseLantern moment! 🎉🏮
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Giant horse-shaped lantern to light up Nanjing's iconic lantern fair
cgtn.com
