From now to May 5, Yuyuan Garden in Shanghai is embracing the spirit of spring with the Huazhao Festival — an ancient celebration honoring the birthday of the flower goddess.

The festival features light displays, performances, parades, and floral-inspired installations. It's a unique chance to experience a vivid blend of tradition and creativity.

Light shows

Each evening, Yuyuan Garden is illuminated with radiant light projections across landmarks like Central Plaza, Gold Plaza and the iconic Jiuqu Bridge — also known as the Zigzag Bridge.

Accompanied by five sets of traditional Chinese-style music, the display captures the energy of a flourishing spring. A French musical team composed the original soundtrack exclusively for Yuyuan Garden, while the lighting draws inspiration from traditional Chinese color palettes.

Performances

The festival's live performances are crafted to connect with younger audiences while staying grounded in Chinese tradition.

In Central Plaza, dancers channel the elegance of the Tang Dynasty (618-907), reenacting scenes from a classic painting depicting women with floral headdresses. At Gold Plaza, a folk music duet blends ancient melodies with a modern twist.

Six "Flower Goddesses" appear throughout the event — each with a distinct persona, from scholarly poet to fearless warrior — highlighting the beauty and strength of Chinese women throughout history.

Cultural exhibition

In collaboration with the Suzhou Silk Museum, the YU Meets HER in Intangible Cultural Heritage exhibition explores how artificial intelligence is helping preserve and innovate intangible cultural heritage.

It also highlights the contribution of female heritage inheritors, giving them a platform to showcase their craft and share their stories.

When: Now until May 18, 10 am – 9:30 pm

Where: 3F, Huabao Building, Yuyuan Garden Malls

Source: Yuyuan Garden Malls