The Lantern Festival, celebrated on the 15th day of the Spring Festival, holds a special place in Chinese culture, symbolizing unity and prosperity. This year, the Zigong International Dinosaur Lantern Festival in southwest China’s Sichuan Province is illuminating the tradition with a modern twist.
Zigong, known as the “City of a Thousand Lights,” has a rich history of lantern-making that spans thousands of years. The residents believe that lanterns light the way to prosperity, and their intricate designs reflect a deep-rooted cultural heritage passed down through generations.
This year’s festival is China’s first to offer a “story + gamification” immersive experience, combining live events with virtual reality technology. By integrating interactive storytelling and VR, the festival aims to attract younger audiences, bridging the gap between age-old traditions and contemporary innovation.
Visitors can engage with mesmerizing lantern displays that come to life through virtual interactions, offering a unique blend of art and technology. This fusion not only revitalizes the Lantern Festival but also showcases Zigong’s commitment to embracing the future while honoring its storied past.
