Zigong lantern festival combines cultural heritage with advanced technology

A variety of lantern installations are set up at the Chinese Lantern World in Zigong, Sichuan province, in preparation for the upcoming 32nd Zigong International Dinosaur Lantern Festival, which is set to kick off on Friday. [Photo provided to chinadaily.com.cn]

The 32nd Zigong International Dinosaur Lantern Festival is set to open on Friday at the Chinese Lantern World in Zigong, Sichuan province, presenting a spectacular fusion of traditional craftsmanship, cultural storytelling, and modern technology.

This year's festival will feature 11 sets of large-scale lanterns and more than 200 smaller displays across 10 themed zones, creating an immersive experience for visitors, according to the organizers.

Chen Jinhong, director of Zigong's culture, radio, television, and tourism bureau, said the event combines intangible cultural heritage techniques — including lantern-making, tie-dye, and paper-cutting — with Chinese mythology and classic historical tales.

Among the highlights is the 210-meter-long "Magical China" lantern set. Inspired by ancient classic Zhuangzi, it depicts the legendary Kunpeng (a giant mythical bird-fish) to symbolize national strength and pride.

Another standout is the 180-meter-long "Legend of Mulan" created for the upcoming Chinese Year of the Horse. It blends the heroic image of Mulan — the legendary Chinese heroine who took her aged father's place in the army — with galloping horses, conveying a profound sense of patriotism and dedication to the nation.

In line with eco-friendly principles, recycled and locally sourced materials were creatively transformed into artworks. A nearly 4-meter-high majestic golden Hou beast was crafted from 100 kilograms of straw, a phoenix from 15,000 red chilies, and a mythical Qilin from 46,000 recycled medicine bottles.

The event will also integrate advanced technologies — such as AI interaction, smart touch controls, and light-sensing systems — allowing visitors to engage with virtual singers and lifelike robotic dinosaurs through immersive interactions, the organizers said.