Various activities held across China to celebrate upcoming New Year

Colorful activities are taking place across China to welcome the New Year, with cities adorned with dazzling displays and festive decorations, filling the air with joy and excitement.

At the Lijiang Old Town in southwest China's Yunnan Province, local residents dressed in traditional Naxi attire and tourists from all over the country joined hands around a bonfire to welcome the new year with the traditional Datiao dance, immersing themselves in the joyous atmosphere.

Huaying City in Sichuan Province has held a New Year's carnival, captivating residents and tourists with a display of molten-iron fireworks -- a traditional Chinese folk art and intangible cultural heritage -- and a spectacular drone show.

"Tonight, I watched the drone show, saw the advancement of technology, and witnessed the changes in my hometown. In the coming year, I wish our hometown an ever-improving future and wish our country prosperity," said Xu Wu, a local resident.

In Shanghai, festive ornaments and colorful lights have been put up at major commercial districts and landmarks.

Local shopping centers have extended their operating hours and offered discounts to consumers to enhance the holiday cheer.

"I think it looks surreal. I couldn't help but stop and linger when I got here. I just feel happy," said Ding Hui, a Shanghai resident.

Meanwhile, Fushan Bay, a key regional financial center and international business hub in Qingdao City, east China's Shandong Province, has dressed its 5.2-kilometer-long buildings in dynamic festive patterns, enchanting visitors on sightseeing boats with a splendid light show.

The iconic bay area attracts more than 10 million tourists a year.

-Reuters