Ningbo lantern fair lights up summer nights

Different shapes of lanterns. [Photo/WeChat account: nbfb0574]

The Ningbo Qiandeng Lantern Fair opened on the evening of July 31 at Tiangong Manor in Yinzhou district, attracting around 6,000 visitors on its first night.

The fair runs until Oct 7, turning the 500-mu (33-hectare) park into a dazzling nighttime destination from 5:30 pm to 10:30 pm every day.

Featuring handcrafted lanterns from Sichuan's Zigong, China's renowned "lantern city," the fair presents five immersive themed zones combining spectacular light displays, live performances, and interactive activities.

Visitors are greeted by a glowing landscape of golden rice stalks beneath a giant full moon, creating a dreamlike backdrop that has quickly become a favorite photo spot.

Other highlights include the enchanting Insect World, where oversized butterflies, bees, and dragonflies are surrounded by illuminated flowers, mist effects, and natural soundscapes, and the Misty Forest, where sparkling fireflies and floating lanterns create a magical woodland atmosphere.

Beyond the lantern displays, immersive performances bring the fair to life. Dancing forest elves interact with visitors throughout the park, while breathtaking datiehua (molten iron fireworks) and waterborne fire performances light up the night sky. A lively bonfire party invites guests to join hands, dance, and celebrate, making the Qiandeng Lantern Fair one of Ningbo's most exciting summer attractions.

Visitors watch the datiehua performance. [Photo/WeChat account: nbfb0574]