The lantern fair held at Yuyuan Garden, one of China’s national intangible cultural heritages, has been a significant cultural event among the Lantern Festival celebrations in Shanghai, China’s vibrant metropolis, since 1995. The theme of this year’s fair was inspired by the ancient literary work Shan Hai Jing (Classic of Mountains and Seas) and was titled “The Adventure of Mountains and Seas,” serving as a continuation of the 2023 edition. Falling on the 15th day of the first month of the Chinese lunar calendar, the Lantern Festival occurred this year on February 24th.
In 2024, marking the 60th anniversary of program exchanges between China and France, the year was designated as the China-France Year of Culture and Tourism. As part of this initiative, a lantern fair was also organized in Yuyuan Garden in Paris. The fair showcased both the beauty of Chinese lanterns and the allure of Shan Hai Jing, an ancient Chinese literary masterpiece.
These events not only highlight cultural exchanges and friendship between China and France but also provide an opportunity to celebrate the rich cultural heritage and artistic values of both countries. The Dragons and Lanterns Festival, staged in both Shanghai and Paris, offered a colorful and enchanting cultural experience, creating memorable moments for participants.