The opening ceremony of Chongqing Tongliang Chinese Dragon Lantern Art Festival

By Keqiao Cheng, EDITOR

Chongqing - On the evening of January 13, the first edition of Chongqing Tongliang Chinese Dragon Lantern Art Festival kicked off. The dragon dance, item of the national intangible cultural heritage, made its appearance at the opening ceremony. The festival lasts until February 19, offering a good chance to experience dragon culture and celebrate the Spring Festival.

World-renowned reputation

In the past two years, Tongliang Dragon Dance has represented Chongqing to participate in international activities many times.

For instance, it has shown on Times Square New Year Countdown Ceremony twice, bringing surprises to the “Crossroads of the World”. Tongliang also successfully held the International Dragon Dance Championship, winning world-renowned reputation.

Also, Tongliang Dragon Dance is listed in the first batch of China’s “National Intangible Cultural Heritage”. It has involved in the National Day Celebration, the opening ceremony of the Olympic Games, and China-foreign cultural exchanges, etc. Thus, people call it a treasure of traditional Chinese culture.

Tongliang people are keen on making dragon lanterns and competing in dragon dance. They have created more than 60 genres of dragon dances. For example, the large wriggly dragon dance is famous for its tremendous momentum. The athletic dragon dance alternates strength with gentleness. And the Tongliang fire dragon dance is especially drastic and radiant.

Tips for tourists

A paifang-shaped lantern at the Dragon Lantern Festival

During the festival, the joyful atmosphere expands from the Tongliang Exit on the Chongqing-Suining Expressway. Starting from there, citizens and tourists will feel the rich atmosphere of dragon culture and appreciate the splendid lantern decorations.

The festival has also set up large-scale colored lanterns in the Tongliang Anju Ancient Town and Colorful Dreamlike Garden.

There is no entrance fee for Anju Ancient Town and People’s Park. From Feb.5 to Feb.19, citizens can enjoy the live dragon dance.

Source: CQCB