Chongqing - The deep, resonant chime of a palace bell echoed through Chongqing's bustling Jiefangbei Central Business District on Saturday afternoon, followed by a shower of simulated petals. As the last tone faded, an eight-meter-tall lantern installation named "Radiant Lanterns" illuminated, marking the grand opening of the "Celebrating the Chinese New Year in the Forbidden City" festivities in the mountain city.
Citizens and tourists pose for photos under the night sky. (Photo/The organizer)
The event, running until February 8, is a collaborative effort guided by the Palace Museum Press and organized by local cultural and governmental bodies, including Chongqing Daily. It aims to fuse imperial traditions with Chongqing's distinctive local character.
The ceremony opened with a Sichuan Opera performance of "The Drunken Concubine." Artist Sun Juan, portraying Consort Yang, captivated the audience with her flowing sleeves and expressive artistry, her performance a stark yet harmonious contrast against the backdrop of gleaming skyscrapers. The crowd responded with enthusiastic applause, many recording the moment on their phones.
A Sichuan Opera performance of "The Drunken Concubine" is staged. (Photo/The organizer)
"I brought my daughter specifically to see our excellent traditional culture," said attendee Mr. Wang. His young daughter watched, mesmerized, her eyes reflecting the stage lights.
A children's fashion show followed, where young models showcased clothing and accessories featuring traditional motifs, confidently parading through a "Forbidden City"-themed set. The event culminated in a symbolic bell-ringing ceremony. Three clear chimes triggered the petal shower and the simultaneous lighting of the market stalls.
A palace bell is rung. (Photo/The organizer)
A central activity involved visitors writing wishes on wooden plaques and hanging them on blessing frames, reviving the ancient custom of "Writing Auspicious Words." Wishes for good fortune, health, and success dangled in the air, blending the scent of ink with the festive atmosphere.
The wishing frame is filled with blessing plaques. (Photo/The organizer)
As night fell, interactive zones drew the largest crowds. The towering "Radiant Lanterns" piece, inspired by a Qing-dynasty palace artifact, became a prime photo spot. Nearby, a Mixed Reality (MR) experience zone allowed users to gesture-control virtual characters in traditional "ice games," while a bionic robotic dog dressed as a festive lion danced to drumbeats, delighting children.
The "Radiant Lanterns" piece becomes a popular photo spot. (Photo/The organizer)
Stalls featuring Palace Museum post offices, traditional coffee, and hands-on workshops for tie-dye and Shu embroidery attracted steady streams of visitors, particularly young adults.
"By integrating Sichuan Opera, intangible heritage displays, and local elements with imperial culture, we aim to bring palace traditions into the vibrant life of the city," explained a representative from the organizing committee. "This allows imperial arts to find new vitality and provides a broader stage for Chongqing's own cultural heritage."
Traditional charm and modern technology share the stage. (Photo/The organizer)
The "Celebrating the New Year in the Forbidden City" IP is known for moving beyond museum walls. Its Chongqing edition represents a conscious effort at localization, creating a dialogue between the solemnity of the Forbidden City and the dynamic energy of Jiefangbei's urban pulse. This fusion offers both residents and visitors a unique, culturally rich way to usher in the Chinese New Year.
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