Chongqing - The 32nd Zigong International Dinosaur Lantern Festival will illuminate the Chinese New Year with a stunning fusion of ancient tradition and cutting-edge technology when it opens on January 23. Held at the China Lantern World in Zigong, Sichuan Province, this year’s edition carries the theme “Lanterns Illustrating China, Dreams Shaping the Future.” It promises an immersive journey through Chinese cultural history while embracing interactive innovations designed to engage visitors like never before.
At press conference, virtual pop star Luo Tianyi made a special appearance, debuting a one-minute preview of the festival’s theme song “A Thousand Lanterns.”
The event will be complemented by a series of cultural and tourism activities, including the “Chinese New Year Global Travelers’ Gala (Zigong)” to attract international visitors, and “A Musical Journey · Zigong Night,” which blends live performances with lantern scenery.
Recognized as a national intangible cultural heritage, the Zigong Lantern Festival is often called the “World’s Finest Lantern Show” and contributed to the recent UNESCO listing of the Chinese Spring Festival.
This year’s installations are arranged across ten themed zones, such as “Chinese Knot Avenue,” “Fortune Square,” “Legend of Mulan,” and “Miraculous China.” More than 11 large-scale and 200 smaller lantern sets will bring to life stories from Chinese mythology, history, and folklore.
Highlights include a 210-meter-long lantern set inspired by the ancient text Zhuangzi, depicting the mythical Peng bird to symbolize national vigor; a 180-meter “Legend of Mulan” display merging the heroine’s figure with galloping horses; and a 35-meter-tall “Luminous Knot Gateway,” designed as a symmetrical portal linking past and present. An AI-enabled “Fortune Nian Beast” allows visitors to converse with the mythical creature.
This year’s festival also showcases sustainable creativity, incorporating recycled and local materials such as blue-and-white porcelain, straw, used medicine bottles, and chili peppers into its designs.
In the “Intangible Heritage Zone,” 200 kilograms of straw have been transformed into a majestic golden beast, while 15,000 red chilies and 46,000 recycled bottles form a fiery phoenix and a water unicorn, respectively.
A specially curated “Creative Lantern Gallery” features designs adapted from children’s drawings submitted worldwide, reflecting the global appeal of Zigong’s lantern artistry.
Moving beyond static displays, this year’s festival introduces AI interaction, motion sensors, and touch-response technology. Visitors can trigger light and sound effects, interact with virtual performers and animatronic dinosaurs, and explore a 300-meter “Salt Street Lantern Market” tailored for photo opportunities, blending traditional and cyberpunk aesthetics.
A park-wide immersive theater experience allows guests to engage with performers and complete story-driven tasks along the route.
Ticket prices have been kept accessible: during the peak period from Lunar New Year’s Eve to Lantern Festival (February 17 - March 1), adult tickets are priced at ¥168, with concessions at ¥98. Off-peak rates are ¥118 and ¥80, respectively. Combo tickets covering accommodation, cultural products, and other local attractions are also available.
Digital upgrades include a one-stop mobile platform for ticketing, parking, dining, and accommodation bookings. Authorities have also implemented strict measures to prevent overcharging and ensure visitor safety.
Beyond the lantern park, Zigong will host over 350 cultural and tourism events across the city, including heritage tours at the Salt History Museum, dragon lantern shows at Fangte Dinosaur Park, night cruises on the Fu River, and local food and music festivals in neighboring towns.
A newly released food guide and a visitor benefits program involving nearly 200 local businesses offer added incentives. The recent opening of international hotels such as Howard Johnson and Hilton has expanded accommodation options.
The 32nd Zigong International Dinosaur Lantern Festival is positioned not only as a visual spectacle but also as a cultural bridge - connecting tradition with innovation and inviting the world to step into a luminous celebration of the Lunar New Year.
By continuing to browse our site you agree to our use of cookies, revised Privacy Policy and Terms of Use. You can change your cookie settings through your browser.
For any inquiries, please email service@ichongqing.info