Xiangyang North Street Lantern Festival: A Dreamlike Scene with Sky Lanterns

Xiangyang North Street, a renowned historical and cultural district in Xiangyang City, Hubei Province, is located within the ancient city of Xiangyang, adjacent to the Han River. It is famous for its Ming and Qing dynasty architecture and traditional folk culture. During the Lantern Festival, Xiangyang North Street hosts a variety of festive activities, making it an ideal place to experience traditional Chinese New Year customs and the charm of the ancient city.

I. Xiangyang North Street Lantern Festival Highlights
1. Lantern Feast
Location: North Street Main Street, Linhanmen City Wall, Xiaobeimen Wharf.
Features:
Giant Zodiac Lanterns.
Intangible Cultural Heritage Lantern Exhibition (such as Xiangyang "Laohekou Woodblock New Year Pictures" element lanterns).
Interactive Lantern Riddle Corridor, where you can exchange correct answers for Tangyuan (glutinous rice balls) or small gifts.

2. Folk Performances
Time: 14th to 16th day of the first lunar month (6:00 pm - 9:00 pm).
Content:
Dragon and lion dances, Xiangyang flower drum opera, shadow puppetry, stilt walking parade.
Hanfu enthusiasts parade, visitors can rent Hanfu to participate (approx. 50 CNY/hour).

3. Food Market
Recommended stalls:
Xiangyang beef noodles, Kongming Cai (Xiangyang pickles), Jingang Su (traditional pastries).
Lantern Festival Specials: Freshly made handmade Tangyuan, sugar paintings, candied haws on a stick.

4. Han River Night Cruise
Cruise Terminal: Xiaobeimen Wharf.
Activities:
Enjoy the light show on both sides of the river on an antique-style painting boat (ticket price approx. 40 CNY/person).
Set river lanterns for good luck (5-10 CNY/lantern).

The Xiangyang North Street Lantern Festival blends traditional folk customs with the charm of the ancient city. Whether it's the brightly lit streets or the dazzling lights along the Han River, visitors can immerse themselves in the festive atmosphere of "a night sky ablaze with fireworks." Plan your trip in advance, bring your family and friends, and spend an authentic Xiangyang reunion night together!