Local communities joined hands to make colorful lanterns in Pingtan, the closest place on the Chinese mainland to the island of Taiwan, to usher in the Lantern Festival and bask in the joys of the celebration.

Learning local customs and making lanterns

Equipped with some craft scissors, color pencils, and other tools, the children set off on their lantern-making journey accompanied by their parents and craft teachers.

Gao Hanyun posed proudly with a cute "Shuey Rhon Rhon " lantern. The young student said the spirit of the Winter Olympics and the determination of each sportsman are inspiring.

To promote the Lantern Festival and traditional celebrations to the public, free art classes for kids aged 4-8 were held. Teachers taught the children how to make paper-cut dance lions and expand their knowledge of Chinese traditions and customs in a fun and relaxing set-up. The kids also learnt to be innovative and also creative with their hands.

Appreciating Pingtan Shell Carvings and Lampbrellas

Pingtan Shell Carvings and Lampbrellas were brought in and exhibited as part of a promotion activity for Pingtan's intangible cultural heritage in local neighborhoods.

Li Yao, a 13-year-old, the youngest of the visitors at the exhibition, said that it was his first encounter with Pingtan's intangible cultural heritage. He never knew Pingtan had any cultural heritage before. The program was truly an eye-opener.

Kang Guilin, the inheritor of lampbrellas lanterns, also brought oil paints and lanterns."I hope this  event can make everyone immerse in the joy of creation and experience the beauty of intangible cultural heritage,”said Kang Guilin.

Red Bean Dumplings, a unique Taiwanese snack, were served at the event to give visitors a flavorful and festive taste of the traditional celebration.

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