Performing groups parade in the street amid enthusiastic audience in Jingning She autonomous county. [Photo/Tide News]

The Lantern Festival, marking the end of the Chinese New Year celebrations, was celebrated with dragon and lion dances on Feb 24 in Jingning She autonomous county, Lishui, Zhejiang province.

At 7 pm, accompanied by lively gongs and drums, two giant dragons galloped in, arousing bursts of cheers and applause. The performing group, running back and forth in gorgeous costumes, skillfully maneuvered enormous dragons, captivating the audience with their vibrant and majestic performances.

The two dragons, unique in their construction from wooden benches, were respectively made with the effort of every local household from Yingchuan town and Luci township in the county.

Performer Wu Qidong said, "We prepared for a month or two and everyone was very motivated. We all feel proud to participate in this event in the Year of Dragon."

Furthermore, the event also featured lion dance and fish lantern groups, drawing enthusiastic crowds of both locals and tourists. "I feel very happy to watch such a fantastic performance so close to my home. I hope more such activities can be held in the future so that more people can experience the New Year flavor of our county," said citizen Yin Youyou.

The vibrant procession, accompanied by the sounds of gongs and drums, weaved through the streets, bestowing blessings upon the onlookers and creating a lively and extraordinary New Year atmosphere.