In the historic streets of Chengdu’s ancient towns, vibrant fish lanterns glide through the alleys, while fireworks illuminate the sky in a dazzling nighttime spectacle. Meanwhile, the city’s urban core seamlessly blends the charm of tradition with cutting-edge innovation. From futuristic light displays to the timeless beauty of intangible cultural heritage and refined Eastern aesthetics, Chengdu radiates energy and cultural depth.

“Open the Jinmen Gate!” The commanding call echoes through the Jinmen Scenic Area in Xindu District, accompanied by the rhythmic beat of festival drums. The lively festivities of the Chinese New Year spill into the bustling streets, enveloping visitors in an atmosphere of celebration.

At the heart of the revelry, nearly a hundred banquet tables are lined up, each showcasing the iconic “Nine Bowls” feast—an authentic Sichuan culinary tradition. Wisps of steam rise from the dishes, carrying the enticing aroma of slow-braised meats and the rich, spicy scent of fermented broad bean paste. This banquet is more than just a meal; it’s a cultural tribute to Sichuan’s culinary heritage, honoring the Chinese New Year with flavors impossible to resist.

This year’s celebrations hold special significance, marking the first Spring Festival since UNESCO recognized the Chinese New Year as part of the Representative List of Intangible Cultural Heritage of Humanity in December of the previous year. To commemorate this milestone, Chengdu’s master artisans proudly display their skills. On quincuncial piles, agile lion dancers leap and spin, exuding the festive spirit. At sugar painting stalls, children gaze in wonder as artisans create intricate dragon and phoenix designs, crafting sweet memories of the season. Dressed in exquisite hanfu, young women stroll beneath lantern-lit skies, their hair adorned with delicate floral pins as they carry glowing fish lanterns. Meanwhile, the mesmerizing molten iron fireworks—a spectacle unique to Chengdu—burst into the night, burning at an astonishing 1,600 degrees Celsius.

The New Year celebrations extend to the Wenshufang Street Intangible Cultural Heritage Shopping Festival, where the festive spirit intertwines with commerce. Handmade sugar figurines, vibrant Shu brocade sachets, and traditional Sichuan cured meats line the bustling market stalls. Tourists, their arms laden with bright red shopping bags, browse joyfully, their faces alight with the warmth of the holiday season. This vibrant street scene is not just about preserving traditions—it’s a living testament to the harmony of heritage and modern life.

Meanwhile, at the Chengdu Science Fiction Museum, the city’s futuristic spirit takes center stage at the “Ancient Shu Kingdom Looks at Today’s Pidu: Sci-Fi Chinese New Year” Nebula Magic Night. The night sky transforms with the breathtaking “Golden Snake Fire Dance” drone show, where a colossal spaceship, glowing in luminous blue and brilliant white, seems to journey through time, bridging the present with an imagined future.

Adding to the spectacle, the “Sparkling Fire” fire pot performance embodies the age-old belief in banishing misfortune and invoking prosperity. The “Interstellar Travel” concert electrifies the audience with dynamic performances, blurring the lines between reality and science fiction, making one question whether they stand in the present or a distant tomorrow.

Culture is the heartbeat of a city. Throughout 2024, Chengdu harnessed the power of its cultural heritage to invigorate its economy, enrich urban life, and foster global cultural exchange. Through a vibrant lineup of events, the city has cultivated a deep sense of belonging among its people, strengthening its position as a world-class cultural destination.

Looking ahead to the 2025 Spring Festival, Chengdu embraces the theme “Vibrant Chengdu Year, Countless New Beginnings,” unveiling 12 major cultural and tourism celebrations alongside over 1,000 unique activities across 13 categories. As fireworks paint the sky and blossoms usher in a new season, Chengdu’s Chinese New Year emerges as a brilliant showcase of tradition, innovation, and cultural dynamism.

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