The lantern-lighting ceremony of the 2026 Hengdian Shangyuan Lantern Fair is held on Jan 18 at Hengdian World Studios. [Photo/Tide News]

The grand lantern-lighting ceremony of the 2026 Hengdian Shangyuan Lantern Fair was held on Jan 18 at Hengdian World Studios in Dongyang county-level city of Jinhua, Zhejiang province, dazzling visitors from across the country.

The ceremony not only launches the lantern fair but also invites visitors to Hengdian's unique Chinese New Year celebrations. From film experiences to traditional cultural feasts, and from parades to exceptional hotel services, Hengdian aims to create a culturally rich and lively destination for all ages.

As the "opening act" of Hengdian's Spring Festival activities, the Hengdian Shangyuan Lantern Fair features large themed lantern sets that blend Chinese film culture, traditional lantern art, and elements from the ancient Chinese myth, The Classic of Mountains and Seas, creating six filming sites with different themes. Visitors are immersed in these themes immediately upon entering.

Beyond lanterns, the fair offers a rich experience with over 300 NPCs in ancient-style parades, more than 360 daily performances, traditional fire shows, ancient magic, and thrilling acrobatics. Visitors can participate in interactive storylines and make wishes at special installations.

Additionally, a Spring Festival parade will ignite festivities along Wansheng pedestrian street, integrating film classics with traditional culture.

During Spring Festival, Hengdian International Circus City will also host a clown carnival, with clowns, acrobats, and magicians interacting with the audience. Meanwhile, the Dragon Lantern Cultural Festival will provide dragon lantern displays and creation experiences for visitors, as well as other traditional cultural activities.

Visitors can also savor authentic Dongyang cuisine among cinematic settings, making the journey in Hengdian a fully immersive experience.