The coastal city of Shanwei in Guangdong presented a Chinese New Year show on February 18, combining a fleet of approximately 1,300 drones with a large fireworks display over Pinqing Lake. The synchronized performance, lasting nearly an hour, was a first for the city's annual New Year celebrations.
The event began with traditional performances, including local fishing songs, operas, and the vigorous Yingge dance—a recognized intangible cultural heritage practice meant to welcome spring.
Around 8:40 PM, the drones ascended and formed aerial images of nine of Shanwei's national-level intangible cultural heritage items, including shadow puppetry and local opera styles. A fireworks display followed, with sequences using colours and patterns to evoke local symbols like fishing boats and lanterns, as well as the Guangdong-Hong Kong-Macao Greater Bay Area.
After the fireworks, the drones returned to highlight local products such as lychees, oysters, and sea urchins, as well as the city's jewellery industry. They also spelled out Shanwei's tourism slogan and displayed symbols related to its history and economic development.
"It was the first time we've seen drones and fireworks work together like this in Shanwei," said Liu, a university student home for the holidays who was at the event. "It blended our heritage with new technology."
Author | Feng Huiting
Photo | Nanfang Plus
