The night sky over Nanjing in Jiangsu Province was transformed into a sea of light on Saturday evening as giant fish-shaped lanterns paraded through the streets, marking the start of the Spring Festival celebrations.
Thousands of residents gathered to witness the mesmerizing display, where colorful lanterns in the form of fish floated above the city, illuminating the night with a warm glow. The parade brought to life a cherished tradition that symbolizes prosperity and abundance in Chinese culture.
“The fish represents surplus and good fortune,” explained Li Wei, a local teacher attending the event with his family. “During the Spring Festival, it’s customary to have fish as part of the New Year’s feast, hoping for a year of plenty.”
The connection between fish and prosperity comes from the homophone in Mandarin between “fish” (鱼) and “surplus” (余). This linguistic tie has made fish a staple symbol during Lunar New Year celebrations across the Chinese mainland.
The lantern parade is one of many events in Nanjing celebrating the Spring Festival, also known as the Lunar New Year, which is the most important holiday in Chinese culture. The festival brings families together for reunions, feasts, and festivities that last for 15 days.
“It’s amazing to see our traditions come alive in such a beautiful way,” said Chen Fang, a university student. “The lanterns not only light up the sky but also our hopes for a prosperous year ahead.”
The dazzling display of light and culture in Nanjing serves as a reminder of the rich heritage and enduring significance of the Spring Festival for people across the Chinese mainland.
Reference(s):
cgtn.com
