Performers parade with the 170-meter-long Lingkou Pavilion Dragon Lantern from Pan'an. [Photo/WeChat account: HZ_CSZX]

Lanterns, dragon dances and cutting-edge robots lit up the night on March 2 as the immersive Lantern Festival fair opened at the Wulin Constellation Expo Center in Gongshu district, making it one of Hangzhou's most vibrant holiday destinations.

Inside the renovated industrial complex, red lanterns and decorations recreated the atmosphere of a traditional Song Dynasty (960–1279) festival. A major highlight was the debut in Hangzhou of the provincial-level intangible cultural heritage Lingkou Pavilion Dragon Lantern from Pan'an, a 170-meter-long illuminated dragon parading through the venue.

People dressed up in classic costumes celebrate the festival. [Photo/WeChat account: HZ_CSZX]

Nightly iron-flower performances — where molten iron is flung into the air to create dazzling sparks — drew loud applause, while visitors also took part in hands-on activities such as lantern making and folk craft experiences.

Blending tradition with innovation, robots and robotic dogs from Unitree Robotics, known for their Spring Festival Gala appearance on China Central Television, interacted with crowds.

Nearly 100 market stalls offered traditional snacks and international specialties, adding a global flavor to the celebration.

The Lantern Festival fair runs through 9 pm on March 3, featuring a grand dragon dance and free tangyuan giveaways, offering residents and tourists a lively finale to the Chinese New Year celebrations.

Foreigners try their hands at making a lantern. [Photo/WeChat account: HZ_CSZX]

An iron-flower performance. [Photo/WeChat account: HZ_CSZX]