Universal Beijing Resort kicks off month-long celebration for Year of Snake

The Universal Beijing Resort launched a month-long celebration for the upcoming Year of Snake on Saturday, featuring a festive parade and joyful stage performances for Spring Festival visitors.

Viper, a member of the Furious Five in the popular martial arts comedy "Kung Fu Panda," has been selected as the symbol of the celebration, marking the fourth consecutive year that Universal Beijing Resort has hosted a Spring Festival event

The festival celebration also featured a stage show starring characters from beloved films such as Despicable Me, Madagascar, and Kung Fu Panda. It also showcased traditional Chinese arts, including dragon dance, lion dance, and drumming.

"When the show came to the part of 'Kung Fu Panda', I realized it is the Chinese elements that are the best. Dance performances like lion dance that are rich in Chinese style are also very exciting," said a tourist.

Universal Beijing Resort kicks off month-long celebration for Year of Snake

Footage shot from the Iranian capital Tehran on Wednesday has shown supermarket shelves appearing well stocked and marketplaces still operating, with the government reportedly taking steps to ensure the supply of daily necessities amid the ongoing U.S. and Israeli strikes.

Although many residents have been forced to evacuate as missiles rain down on the city, life in much of Tehran is continuing.

Video taken by a China Global Television Network (CGTN) reporter showed markets and shops continuing to operate as usual, with efforts being made to ensure the supply of essential goods and key commodities.

Iran said on Thursday that 1,230 people have been killed in U.S. and Israeli strikes since fighting began on Saturday.

The death toll was announced by Iran's Foundation of Martyrs and Veterans Affairs in a statement on its website.

Footage from Tehran shows businesses operating, markets well stocked

Footage from Tehran shows businesses operating, markets well stocked