China's traditional Lantern Festival, which marks the end of the Chinese New Year celebrations, falls on Friday. Despite this, lantern fairs are already being held around China.
Tens of thousands of lanterns have turned the northeastern city of Shenyang into a lantern wonderland. And as it's the Year of the Horse, the equine animal features prominently here. Pastimes of local people are also on display through shadow play in windows of some of the lanterns.
One street, dating back to the Qing Dynasty, has revived its old-time flavour with an array of lanterns. Some 500 "Trotting Horse Lanterns", with a carousel in the middle, are displayed here. The biggest such lantern installed in the street features pictures painted by the city's most experienced folk artist, who is 84.
And as a replica of a Tang Dynasty royal garden, Tang Paradise in Xi'an has been a tourist hot spot for years. A lantern fair being held there is adding to its appeal. Up to a hundred sets of lanterns are showcased in various themes, shapes and sizes providing visitors with plenty of festive fun.
The fair will last until March 2nd, to ensure that locals and tourists will be able to join in the fun.
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| Horse features prominently at Shenyang's lantern fair. |
