This year's Spring Festival in Dongguan was a vibrant blend of tradition, modern experiences, and heartwarming reunions. As the city embraced the theme "Celebrate Chinese New Year in Dongguan," residents and visitors alike enjoyed an exciting array of cultural festivities. From dragon and lion dances to dazzling lantern displays, spontaneous song-and-dance performances, and immersive heritage exhibitions, Dongguan pulsed with festive energy, drawing millions to celebrate together.
During the 2025 Spring Festival holiday (from January 28 to February 4), Dongguan welcomed approximately 5.23 million visitors , marking a 4% increase year-on-year. Tourism revenue soared to 3.01 billion RMB, a 9.4% jump , making it the city's best Spring Festival performance in years.
Key attractions, including the Opium War Museum, Nanshe Ancient Village, and Dongguan Xiangshi Zoo , saw surging visitor numbers. At Keyuan Garden, a special Cantonese opera performance on the lake provided an unforgettable cultural experience, captivating both locals and out-of-town guests.
Beyond traditional sites, urban lifestyle hubs were abuzz with activity. People flocked to Huangqi Mountain for New Year blessings, shopped at Sam's Club and Freshippo, and strolled through cultural districts like Songshan Lake ULand Culture and Art Park. The city's commercial centers also hosted festive shopping events and performances, adding to the lively atmosphere.
One of the biggest highlights was the Longwan Lantern Festival, where 20 large-scale lantern displays incorporated elements of Dongguan's landmarks, Chinese New Year traditions, and the zodiac symbol of the snake. The dazzling spectacle, blending heritage with contemporary artistry, drew thousands of visitors each night. "The festive spirit here is incredible!" a delighted visitor shared. "The lanterns are unique, and the whole experience is just amazing!"