A feast of watermelon lanterns at Pinghu in east China

Lanterns carved from watermelons have painted a traditional folk scene of flowing light and shadow at the East Lake Scenic Spot in Pinghu, Zhejiang Province, as the 2025 Pinghu Watermelon Lantern Mass Cultural (Promotion) Activities got underway.

Over 20 vibrant events are showcasing the city's dynamic development and cultural charm.

For locals, autumn watermelon lanterns embody a unique sense of ritual. This tradition began nearly 300 years ago when they, blessed with abundant watermelon harvests, started crafting the fruit into lanterns, each one carrying their aspirations for a better life.

From their skilled hands emerged intricate patterns depicting Pinghu's landscapes, traditional symbols, and poetic floral-bird imagery. In this way, this intangible cultural heritage of Zhejiang Province was infused with vibrant new life.

"We specially made the trip so our child could experience this unique folk custom," said a visitor named Liu from Jiaxing, also in Zhejiang Province, noting that the event was both entertaining and culturally educational.

Nowadays, the Watermelon Lantern Festival has evolved from a simple folk custom into Pinghu's most recognizable cultural emblem.