A fleet of 500 drones gather above Guangyuan, Sichuan province, to stage a thrilling light show for audiences on Sept 1. [Photo/share.gyxww.cn]

On Sept 1, a fleet of 500 drones appeared in the night sky of Guangyuan, Sichuan province, presenting a dazzling visual feast to local residents.

At around 7:50 pm, a "phoenix" soared into the sky accompanied by a long cry. This "phoenix" drone formation symbolizes Empress Wu Zetian who was born the city over a thousand years ago and carried the glory of the Tang Dynasty (618-907), marking the opening of the stunning light show.

With the help of sound and electrical technology, 20 images, including a giant panda and Guangyuan’s scenic spots "Jianmen Shudao" and "Cuiyun Corridor", were cast into the sky to enthrall the audience. The air was filled with cheers and excitement throughout the 18-minute show.

"How amazing! Drones can actually make so many formations," said Fu, a local resident, who was excited to see the drone light show right outside her doorstep for the first time.

It is reported that this large-scale outdoor drone light show is the first of its kind in the urban area of Guangyuan.

Sponsored by the Guangyuan municipal government and hosted by Guangyuan Daily, the show is one of the important activities for this year's girl's festival that fell on Sept 1.