On February 14, 2026, local time, residents gather in the Ancient City of Xiangyang, located in Xiangyang, Hubei Province, China, to release Kongming lanterns in a coordinated public event. The Ancient City of Xiangyang boasts a history spanning 2,800 years.

Under the theme “Thousands of Lanterns Flying Above the Hanshui River and Thousands of Families Welcoming the Spring Festival,” the event organizers distribute 2,000 helium-filled electronic Kongming lanterns on-site. Citizens and visitors inscribe their Spring Festival wishes and heartfelt blessings upon the lanterns, transforming intangible hopes into tangible aspirations poised to ascend into the night sky. As the lanterns flew gently and serenely, cheers, festive songs, and warm blessings resonated in unison, harmonizing with the luminous glow of the Ancient City Wall of Xiangyang and the gentle ripples of the Hanshui River—culminating in a vivid Spring Festival tableau: “Thousands of lanterns shimmering against the ancient wall; thousands of households welcoming spring together.”

A series of folk performances is also held that evening. The lion dance and the intangible cultural heritage–designated fire pot performance make a striking appearance, embodying the auspicious symbolism of “fire dispelling malevolent forces and bringing peace to every household.” Additionally, an on-site chorus comprising one thousand participants performs traditional Spring Festival songs, infusing the entire venue with festive joy.

Text by: Xiao Yumeng, Pan Ling

Photos by: Yang Dong, Li Xuhu