Peonies bloom at the Shanghai Bay Area Peony Festival held in the Langxia Ecological Park. [Photo/Shanghai Jinshan District Government]

The second annual Shanghai Bay Area Peony Festival has commenced at Langxia Countryside Park in Jinshan district, offering an immersive blend of flower appreciation and cultural festivities that began on April 4.

Themed "National Beauty and Rural Gallery", this month-long event is spread over seven unique viewing areas within the Shanghai Bay Area Peony Garden, showcasing a rich array of peony varieties. The garden presents early peony blooms in full splendor, with some varieties in partial bloom, building anticipation for the peak flowering period in mid-April, promising a spectacular display of tens of thousands of peonies in several stunning shapes and vibrant colors.

In addition to the breathtaking floral displays, this year's festival offers a comprehensive cultural experience, including a peony art exhibition, Chinese-style scenic spots, and an array of engaging activities, providing a holistic immersion into a captivating Chinese culture.

Throughout the festival, visitors can enjoy seeing actors wearing traditional hanfu attire offering captivating performances, games, and interactive tasks.

To further enhance the festival experience, visitors dressed in hanfu will receive free entry to the garden, with the option of hanfu rental services, said Wang Lele, the operations director of the Shanghai Bay Area Peony Garden.

The park will also host a variety of recreational activities, including barbecue camping, a petting zoo, countryside cycling, and hiking, as well as rural homestays, ensuring a fulfilling and enjoyable experience for everyone.

Source: eastday.com