Chongqing - On Dec 27th, the "Let's Meet the World: Fun Together for 2025" Spring Festival International Carnival Launching Ceremony & New Year's Eve Gala officially opened at E’ling Park in Chongqing's Yuzhong District. 

This event follows a significant milestone for Chinese culture: the successful inscription of the Spring Festival on UNESCO's Representative List of the Intangible Cultural Heritage of Humanity this year, highlighting the Spring Festival's deep cultural roots and international influences.

"Let's Meet the World: Fun Together for 2025" event kicks off in E'ling Park (Photo/Feng Xiaolou)

At the opening of this event, Ai Zhengbing, Director of the Publicity Department of Yuzhong District, emphasized how Chongqing bridges tradition and modernity. "Yuzhong is not only the birthplace of this city’s rich history but also a vibrant fusion of tradition and modernity. Here, you can experience 'Old Chongqing' with its profound cultural legacy and 'New Chongqing' with its international flair," he said.  

Set against the scenic backdrop of E'ling Park, a historic landmark in Yuzhong District, the event showcases the city's unique character as a "mountain city, river city, and a city that never sleeps." Highlights include cultural performances such as Chinese dragon dance, international food stalls, and a concert inviting international students studying Chongqing to sing classic Chinese songs to wish everyone a happy new year.  

Dragon dance adds some New Year vibe (Photo/Feng Xiaolou)

Jed Elroy E. Rendor, Vice Consul of the  Consulate General of the Republic of the Philippines in Chongqing, shared his reflections on the event and the global significance of safeguarding cultural heritage. "The Spring Festival celebrates renewal, family reunions, and harmony with nature, values that resonate deeply with the Christmas traditions in the Philippines. Both festivals serve as bridges connecting people through shared joy and traditions, enriching the global tapestry of intangible cultural heritage," he remarked.   

The event reflects Chongqing's efforts to strengthen cultural tourism and international cooperation. Yuzhong District, with its iconic landmarks like Hongya Cave, the Chongqing Cableway, and historic streets such as Shancheng Alley, has become a model for integrating heritage preservation with contemporary urban living.  

International students sing classic Chinese songs together (Photo/Feng Xiaolou)

As attendees joined hands to welcome 2025, Ai Zhengbing highlighted the enduring power of cultural connection: "Chongqing's warmth and openness welcome the world. Through shared celebrations, we deepen friendships, promote understanding, and build a brighter future together."