Shanghai Celebrates China’s Spring Festival: A UNESCO-Recognized Cultural Treasure

SHANGHAI , Jan. 27, 2025 /JamNewsWire/ — On Dec. 4, 2024, the United Nations Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organization (UNESCO) added China’s Spring Festival to its Representative List of the Intangible Cultural Heritage of Humanity. The recognition celebrates the Spring Festival’s important role in fostering social practices and community spirit as the Chinese people welcome their traditional New Year. The designation will further boost Shanghai as a must-visit destination during this year ’s Spring Festival celebrations .

Shanghai hosts a number of exciting events that highlight this rich cultural heritage. The famous Shanghai Lantern Festival, a tradition with a history spanning over two millennia, will illuminate the festivities. This year, the festival draws inspiration from the ancient “Classic of Mountains and Seas,” and features the theme “The Beauty of All Things, the Wonder of Existence.” Visitors to the Yuyuan Lantern Festival can expect an enchanting experience with displays that transform the area into a mythical jungle paradise adorned with fluttering butterflies, vibrant flowers, lush forests, and sinuous snakes.

In addition, Shanghai’s historic sites such as Nanxiang, Luodian in Baoshan, Fengjing in Jinshan and the ancient Qingxi Street will present unique interpretations of lantern art. The displays not only dazzle the senses, but also pay tribute to the enduring folk traditions that enrich China’s cultural tapestry. Over 200 performances, exhibitions and interactive experiences will be presented during the Spring Festival period, offering a deep immersion into the festive and community atmosphere that characterizes this time of year.

The city of Shanghai extends a warm invitation to visitors from around the world to explore the cultural magnificence of the Spring Festival and the fascinating beauty of the Shanghai Lantern Festival. The celebration is a testament to the living heritage that UNESCO aims to protect and promote for future generations.