A snake-themed Spring Festival lantern show opened in Shanghai on Friday, captivating visitors with a fusion of Chinese traditions and global influences. Unlike traditional lantern festivals, this event blends the rich heritage of Chinese culture with snake myths and legends from ancient civilizations around the world.
The festival features over 100 snake-themed lantern installations, each one inspired by tales and folklore from different cultures. From the mythical serpents of ancient Greece and Egypt to the revered Nagas of India and Southeast Asia, the exhibition celebrates the universal symbolism of snakes across diverse societies.
“We wanted to create a lantern show that not only honors the Chinese zodiac’s Year of the Snake but also highlights the global stories and meanings associated with snakes,” said the festival’s artistic director. “By bringing together these legends, we hope to promote cultural exchange and mutual understanding.”
Visitors can stroll through illuminated displays that showcase the snake’s role as a symbol of wisdom, transformation, and rebirth. Interactive exhibits and performances further enrich the experience, offering insights into how different cultures interpret the serpent’s significance.
The festival runs throughout the Spring Festival period, inviting locals and tourists alike to celebrate the arrival of the Year of the Snake in a unique and enlightening way.
Reference(s):
cgtn.com
