2025 Spring Festival: Market and feast held for celebration
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Today marks the beginning of the Chinese New Year of the Snake. Across China, people are celebrating with vibrant events, bringing communities together to enjoy traditional customs and delicious food. Xu Xinchen reports. 

Celebrations are underway for the Chinese New Year. 

This outdoor market showcases the unique features of Southwest China's Chengdu city, famous for its panda culture and spicy cuisine. 

YANG YANBIN Resident "I think younger generations need to come out more to experience Spring Festival activities like this. In Chengdu's famous Wide and Narrow Alley and Wuhou Temple, there are lantern shows and fairs. Or here at the Tianfu International Convention Center, we have this outdoor market and intangible cultural heritage performances."

The events provide perfect opportunities for families to enjoy the festive holiday. 

"It's very lively and great to bring my kid here. There are more events like this compared to last year."

This is the first Spring Festival since it was added to UNESCO's Representative List of the Intangible Cultural Heritage of Humanity. With China's relaxed visa policies, this year's celebrations also aim to share the festive spirit with more international visitors. 

HUANG WEI Deputy Director, Sichuan Tianfu New Area Cultural, Creative and Exhibition Bureau "We highlight China's traditional culture through unique performances and intangible cultural heritage to attract foreign tourists. Convenient services like visa-free entry, seamless transportation, and a well-connected subway system make it easy to explore, including direct access from the airport to the city and here to Tianfu New Area."

As night falls, families can book a spot for a traditional feast while enjoying live performances in the square. 

XU XINCHEN Chengdu "One of the traditions here is the babayan, a massive feast for hundreds of people, often held for big occasions like the New Year. From sizzling hot dishes to snacks, the table is full of flavors. 

This kind of event has been organized by the local community to bring people together. It's not just about the food – it's about experiencing traditional customs, sharing festive moments. 

It's a celebration of old and new, coming together to make the New Year truly special! Xu Xinchen, CGTN, Chengdu, Sichuan Province."