Summer plans? Cancel them. Because from July 4 to 5, Wanlv Lake (万绿湖) in Heyuan, Guangdong, is throwing an ultimate summer bash: The 2026 Wanlv Lake Fishing Festival!
We are talking about five core themed experiences covering sightseeing, interactive activities, gourmet tasting, cultural appreciation, and photography. Here is your guide to experiencing Heyuan's summer romance:
1. Yingge Dance performance
Before the boats launch, feel the earth shake accompanied by pounding drumbeats of the Yingge Dance mixed with local intangible cultural heritage. It's dynamic and thunderous, serving as the ideal opening highlight.
2. Flower goddesses performance
Get ready for a visual feast as the twelve flower goddesses perform the ethereal "Lake Light and Fishing Moon" (《湖光渔月》) dance, bringing ancient Hanfu aesthetics straight into the lakeside docks.
3. The grand fleet returns
Watch 51 fishing boats loaded with the fresh catch sail back to the pier while fishermen shout out the joys of a massive harvest.
4. A feast of all fish
Hit the grand fish banquet! Try the local signature dish "One Fish, Eight Flavors" for the taste bud adventure. Plus, there's a live auction for the top 5 giant "King Fish" of the lake.
5. Competitions and music salons
From a national-level fishing tournament to lakefront music salons and local markets with over 50 booths, there's no room for boredom.
6. The goddess makeover
Grab the Zanhua (flower hair hoops) Travel Photography Package for just 268 yuan (originally 398 yuan). It includes professional Hanfu hair styling, waterfront photo shoot, 30 edited digital photos, and a free ticket to Jinghuayuan Scenic Area (镜花缘游览区).
7. The buy-one-get-one cruise
Visitors who buy a full-price cruise ticket at the Wanlv Lake Tourist Center can get a free ticket to the gorgeous Sujiawei Dongjiang Gallery Scenic Area (苏家围东江画廊旅游景区).
8. Special discount for graduates
Just finished your Gaokao or Zhongkao? Bring your ID and exam permit to get special entry to the No. 1 Cruise Line (only pay the 55-yuan boat fee) + a free ticket to Sujiawei Dongjiang Gallery Scenic Area.
Pack your bags, grab your besties, and let's chase the blue waves and taste the freshest lake food. Wanlv Lake is waiting for you in Heyuan, Guangdong!
Main venue: Wanlv Lake Scenic Area, Heyuan City, Guangdong Province
Dates: July 4–5, 2026
Author | Dong Han
Photo | Dongyuan Fabu
