Spring Festival celebrations held across the world have drawn huge crowds, offering vibrant parades, cultural performances, and traditional festivities that highlight a growing global appreciation particularly following its inscription on UNESCO's Intangible Cultural Heritage list.
In London, a celebration took place on Sunday at iconic locations including Trafalgar Square and Chinatown, attracting nearly 800,000 participants.
Activities included a float parade, cultural performances, and hands-on experiences, offering attendees an immersive introduction to Chinese traditions.
"I love the lion dancing, that was beautiful. And the Chinese calligraphy is beautiful. And the kids are having fun," remarked a spectator.
Across the Atlantic, Vancouver held its largest Chinese New Year event, the Chinatown Spring Festival Parade, on Sunday.
Despite freezing temperatures and heavy snow, 90 performance teams participated, including British Columbia Premier David Eby, who waved to the crowd.
"I love it so far. This is great. Yeah, it's so nice. The dragon dancing -- that's always my favorite," said a resident.
Madrid's Fuenlabrada district hosted a Chinese New Year race on Feb 1, drawing enthusiastic local participants. The event kicked off with a traditional Chinese lion dance, setting a festive tone for the race.
"This is my first time here, and we came specifically to celebrate China's most important festival. We're delighted to be able to experience your rich traditional culture, and we're thrilled to be part of this celebration," said Marta, a participant.
Meanwhile, Singapore celebrated its 39th "Spring Arrives at the Riverside" festival at Gardens by the Bay, featuring 28 large lantern displays.
The most popular attractions included the "golden snake brings good luck" lantern and the tech-infused "Snake Brings Fortune" light display. Visitors also enjoyed calligraphy workshops, riddle games, and cultural performances.
Running from Jan 27 to Feb 5, the event has become a major cultural highlight in the city-state, drawing locals and tourists alike.
Across the world in South America, a lively Chinese New Year temple fair was held in Bogota, capital of Colombia, attracted over 100,000 visitors.
Performances by Chinese and Colombian art groups, along with students from Tadeo University and the Confucius Institutes at Andes University, featured traditional dances, folk music, Tai Chi demonstrations, and dragon and lion dances.
"I think this event is incredible. It offers a wonderful opportunity to explore all aspects of Chinese culture, including food, activities, and performances. It's truly a privilege to be able to take part in such an event," said Tatiana Carrillo, a local.
In Nairobi, Kenya, the University of Nairobi's Confucius Institute hosted a Spring Festival event where attendees enjoyed dragon and lion dances, traditional music and dance performances, lantern-making, and festive food, allowing them to immerse themselves in the rich customs of the Chinese New Year.
Russia's capital city launched its "Chinese New Year in Moscow" festival at Manezhnaya Square last Tuesday. The event, featuring a series of cultural exhibitions, performances, and interactive experiences, spanning two dozen locations across the city, will run until Feb 9.
With large-scale celebrations taking place worldwide, the Spring Festival's cultural influence continues to expand, reflecting the growing global embrace of Chinese traditions.
The Chinese New Year, also known as the Spring Festival, fell on Jan. 29 this year. It is marked by a two-week-long celebration when people reunite with their families, savor delicious foods, and enjoy a range of festive activities.
Spring Festival celebrations showcasing Chinese culture held around world
