Lantern Festival is one of the most vibrant celebrations during the Chinese New Year season. Among Shanghai's many lantern traditions, Yuyuan Lantern Festival stands out as one of the oldest, most renowned, and most beloved. Designated as a national intangible cultural heritage in 2011, it has become a defining symbol of the city’s cultural identity.

First launched in 1995, the Yuyuan Lantern Festival has illuminated the city for more than three decades. The year 2026 marks its third horse-themed edition, continuing a tradition of artistic storytelling expressed through light and design.

Here is a look back at the festival's zodiac-themed displays over the past decade, each capturing the spirit of its year with creativity and cultural resonance.

2016: Year of the Monkey

When: Jan 26 – Feb 25

This edition focused on the golden monkey as a symbol of blessing and loyalty, expressing aspirations for national prosperity.

2017: Year of the Rooster

When: Jan 15 – Feb 14

Inspired by the rooster's heralding of a new day, the festival emphasized diligence and progress.

2018: Year of the Dog

When: Jan 21 – Feb 22

Centered on harmony between humanity and nature, the displays conveyed the idea that lucid waters and lush mountains are invaluable assets, portraying a vision of beautiful modern life. This edition also marked the first to rely exclusively on LED lighting.

2019: Year of the Pig

When: Jan 21 – Feb 22

Marking the nation's 70th anniversary and the spirit of reform, the festival featured a nine-meter-tall cartoon God of Wealth pig, along with lanterns shaped like the C919 airplane, the Fuxing high-speed train, and robots, highlighting China's technological achievements.

2020: Year of the Rat

When: Jan 10 – Feb 11

Themed around building a moderately prosperous society, the lanterns visually interpreted national projects such as the Belt and Road Initiative and the Yangtze River Delta integration. The festival also features cartoon mouse characters such as Mickey and Minnie.

2021: Year of the Ox

When: Jan 28 – March 1

Celebrating renewal and good fortune, this edition unfolded as a vibrant springtime scroll inspired by the Jiangnan region and featured a Molly-themed exhibition from the trendy toy brand Pop Mart, blending retro charm with contemporary style.

2022: Year of the Tiger

When: Jan 18 – Feb 18

With motifs of leaping tigers, the festival paid tribute to China's aerospace achievements and the Winter Olympics, while adding playful touches such as a cheerful God of Wealth.

2023: Year of the Rabbit

When: Jan 18 – Feb 18

Drawing from the ancient Classic of Mountains and Seas, the festival created an immersive fantasy journey through mythical landscapes, transforming the garden into a glowing nocturnal wonderland.

2024: Year of the Dragon

When: Jan 21 – Feb 29

Continuing the mountains-and-seas narrative across five chapters, this edition also marked a historic moment as the festival was launched simultaneously in Paris and Shanghai.

2025: Year of the Snake

When: Jan 1 – Feb 12

Celebrating the festival's 30th anniversary, this edition extended the beloved mountains-and-seas story with the theme "all things beautiful, all beings wonderful", delivering a sense of harmony and wonder.

 

Source: Huangpu Archives