Changning district in Shanghai offers various ways for you to spend Lantern Festival, which falls on Feb 12 this year.

Lantern raising ceremony

The lantern-raising tradition has a long history in Changning. The event is usually held on the evening of the 13th day of the first month of the Chinese calendar to wish students progress in their studies, entrepreneurs success in their careers, and everyone a bright future.

You can experience the lantern-raising tradition, dance performances, magic shows, acrobatics, and Huangmei Opera, all for free.

Time: 5:30 pm − 7 pm

Location: Outdoor Plaza, Changning Intangible Cultural Heritage Protection Center at No 95 Beiyu Road

The Changning Intangible Cultural Heritage Protection Center will host garden tours with many fun activities. Come spend a joyous time with your loved ones.

Intangible cultural heritage: Shanghai Silk Embroidery

Rooted in the tradition of replicating ancient masterpieces, this exquisite embroidery art is known for its elegance, precision, and intricate craftsmanship.

Join us in exploring the exquisite techniques of silk embroidery and create your own embroidered artwork.

Time: 5 pm − 6 pm

Location: South 3rd Floor ("Home of Intangible Cultural Heritage") at Intangible Cultural Heritage Protection Center

Intangible cultural heritage: The art of Chinese incense

China's incense-making tradition dates back centuries, blending aesthetics with meditation. Scholars and literati have woven incense culture into their daily lives, finding inspiration and serenity in its fragrance.

On Lantern Festival this year, you will have the chance to explore traditional incense varieties, discover ancient scholars' connections to this art, and craft your own incense.

Time: 6:15 pm − 7:15 pm

Location: North Hall at Intangible Cultural Heritage Protection Center

Guessing lantern riddles

Guessing lantern riddles is a cherished tradition in Chinese folklore. More than just an entertaining pastime, it is a test of wit and intellect.

In ancient times, literati engaged in this elegant game, weaving poetic verses and clever wordplay into riddles to challenge one another's knowledge and reasoning skills. Over time, it evolved into a beloved festival activity for people of all ages.

This year, immerse yourself in the joy of solving lantern riddles and experience the timeless charm of this cultural tradition.

Location: North Hall, Intangible Cultural Heritage Protection Center

Time: 5 pm − 8:30 pm

How to participate: Open to all, no registration required.

Opera

Traditional Chinese opera is one of China's most treasured intangible cultural heritages. This Lantern Festival, we invite you to enjoy different genres of opera from across China. You will have the chance to appreciate Yueju Opera from Zhejiang province, Huangmei Opera from Anhui province, and Peking Opera.

Come and immerse yourself in the enchanting world of traditional Chinese opera.

Time: 6:30 pm − 8 pm

Location: Qunle Theater, North 3rd Floor, Intangible Cultural Heritage Protection Center

Making tangyuan

Time: 5 pm − 6 pm, 6:15 pm − 7:15 pm

Location: Leli Garden, North 2nd Floor, Intangible Cultural Heritage Protection Center

 

Source: WeChat account of Changning district administration of culture and tourism