On Feb 28, the 2026 Our Festival: Lantern Festival themed culture event began at the Haiyunan Square venue during the 2026 Qingdao Turnip, Yuanxiao, and Tangqiu Fair. The celebration blended the spirit of reunion with the rich cultural heritage of the Qilu culture, creating a vibrant picture of the Year of the Horse through cultural performances, intangible heritage displays, and festive markets.

A diverse lineup had over 10 high-quality performances of folk music, Beijing Opera, and dance, creating a joyful and civilized atmosphere.

A major highlight was the yuanxiao-making competition. This year, participants introduced new flavors by incorporating national geographical indication agricultural products — such as celery and Chinese cabbage — into the traditional recipes, offering a unique tribute to culinary heritage through modern creativity.

Interactive experiences added to the festivities. The intangible cultural heritage exhibition showcased over 40 representative projects, including Lu embroidery and New Year paintings. For the first time, a dedicated experience zone allowed visitors to try these crafts under expert guidance. Additionally, a bustling trade market with 200 stalls allowed citizens to immerse themselves in the lively cultural atmosphere.

This event serves as a microcosm of Shandong's efforts to revitalize traditional festivals. By integrating folk customs with modern commerce, the celebration not only enriched the public's spiritual life but also local tourism and holiday consumption.

A young child holds a freshly made sugar painting, fully captivated by it. [Photo by Wang Haibin for chinadaily.com.cn]

Intricately crafted shadow puppets highlight traditional artistry during the event. [Photo by Wang Haibin for chinadaily.com.cn]

Expats concentrate on crafting traditional yuanxiao. [Photo by Wang Haibin for chinadaily.com.cn]