Vibrant celebrations have been held in several countries to mark the Spring Festival or Chinese New Year, which falls on Tuesday this year, and ushers in the Year of the Horse.
In Vientiane, the capital of Laos, a festive concert took place last Friday, co-hosted by the Chinese Embassy in Laos and the Lao Ministry of Information, Culture and Tourism.
Lao President Thongloun Sisoulith, along with his wife and other senior officials, attended the event, where Chinese and Lao artists delivered captivating performances that drew warm applause from the audience.
In the Nepali city of Pokhara, a cultural troupe from Guoluo Xizang Autonomous Prefecture in northwest China's Qinghai Province presented a vibrant performance last Monday, showcasing the rich heritage of traditional Chinese culture.
"In Pokhara, we celebrate the Chinese Spring Festival every year. Today, this grand cultural feast brought by the Chinese artistic troupe further promotes cultural exchange between Nepal and China, and strengthens the relationship between our two countries. On behalf of the government of Pokhara, its citizens, and myself, I wish our Chinese friends a happy New Year," said Dhana Raj Acharya, Mayor of Pokhara.
In Thailand, colorful lanterns have been installed in Bangkok's Chinatown, adding to the festive ambiance.
As this year marks the Year of the Horse in the Chinese zodiac, many horse-shaped lanterns have been displayed, attracting both locals and tourists to stop and take photos.
In Płock, Poland, a concert themed on building friendship through music and composing a brilliant chapter with youth, was staged last Tuesday night. "On the occasion of the Chinese Year of the Horse, on behalf of the mayor of Płock and all its citizens, I wish you all lasting joy, good health, and the fulfillment of your dreams in the new year," said Albert Dyna, secretary to the mayor of Płock.
Celebrations held across globe to mark Chinese Spring Festival
People across China ushered in the 2026 Chinese New Year -- a Year of the Horse -- on Tuesday with vibrant displays of intangible cultural heritage, folk performances, and festive market activities, drawing millions of visitors into immersive celebrations.
In northwest China's Xinjiang Uygur Autonomous Region, the ancient city of Kashgar scenic area has transformed into a festive destination, with over 80 events held to welcome visitors to experience the rich tapestry of local culture during the nine-day holiday season of the Spring Festival, which is in the start of the Chinese New Year.
With a gate-opening ceremony at 10:30, the ancient city greeted visitors with traditional ethnic Uyghur dances and folk music.
"I think the ancient city is filled with the Spring Festival vibes. The gate-opening ceremony is of a strong festive atmosphere. Coming here for the Spring Festival makes an absolutely wonderful experience," said Mao, a tourist from Beijing.
At the entrance to a bazaar, performers from multiple ethnic groups, dressed in festive attire, were dancing and singing together, filling every corner of the ancient city with joy and holiday spirit.
In Putian City, east China's Fujian Province, a commercial street has been transformed into a pedestrian-only market zone with over 100 stalls offering thousands of items, ranging from local traditional food, to creative cultural products designed for the Year of the Horse -- the seventh of the 12 animals in the Chinese zodiac.
"I was able to sit down for a handicraft activity, transforming from a spectator into a participant. I just finished embroidering a red horse, perfect for the Spring Festival atmosphere," said Yao Xiuqi, a tourist from south China's Guangdong Province.
The eastern coastal city of Rizhao in Shangdong Province ushered in the Spring Festival with dazzling displays and lively performances.
In Dongyi Town, a morning parade featuring traditional dragon and lion dances, dry-land boat performances, and a Yangge dance winded through the streets.
A market alongside the parade route offered visitors local delicacies and cultural products.
In the ancient town in Juxian County, dressed in traditional Chinese attire, Hanfu, performers staged a captivating parade. Visitors strolled through the historic streets, immersing themselves in the unique blend of traditional culture and Spring Festival celebrations.
"The ancient town is truly lively today. Walking along, I've seen so many wonderful performances. It feels especially festive," said Xue Junjie, a visitor.
Vibrant celebrations held across China to usher in Year of Horse
