New Year's Eve celebrations unfolded across China as people marked the start of 2026 with a variety of activities, from spectacular horseback galloping to dazzling lantern displays and boisterous temple fairs.
In Zhaosu County of northwest China's Xinjiang Uygur Autonomous Region, thousands of horses galloped across the vast expanse of snow-covered grasslands at a national wetland park on Wednesday to welcome the arrival of the new year. Known for its excellent horses since ancient times, Zhaosu is home to China's largest horse-breeding industry.
As night fell, ice and snow sculptures were illuminated, transforming the wetland park into a dreamlike wonderland. Citizens and tourists strolled through this world of light and shadow, fully enjoying this unique New Year's Eve experience.
"We come here to join many other tourists to cheer for and celebrate the new year. May everyone have a happy new year!" said Li Qilin, a tourist from the warm southern Chinese province of Guangdong.
In Dunhuang City of neighboring Gansu Province, over 1,200 distinctive lanterns lit up the night, including 20 main lanterns that incorporate elements from famous Dunhuang murals, such as flying apsaras, nine-colored deers, and winged horses. and the 12 Chinese zodiac animals. The dazzling display of horse-themed lanterns for the coming Chinese lunar Year of the Horses became a popular spot for shutterbugs.
In Yangzhou City of east China's Jiangsu Province, a fish-shaped lantern parade was staged in a historical and cultural block, allowing citizens and tourists to enjoy delicious food while admiring a mobile lantern show.
In neighboring Zhejiang Province's Shaoxing City, a temple fair was held with diverse intangible cultural heritage displays and a wide array of specialty stalls attracting a large number of crowds.
"During the New Year's Day holiday, I traveled to this ancient town and came across the traditional temple fair. I enjoyed wonderful local opera performances and participated in a grand temple fair parade, experiencing the magical charm of local intangible cultural heritage. It was a great experience!" said Meng Yu, a tourist.
New Year’s Eve celebrations unfold across China to welcome 2026
