Among the skyscrapers in Guangzhou's downtown area, the thunderous beat of drums and the agile leaps of dragon and lion dancers signaled the start of a traditional spectacle. On February 26, the Liede Village held its vibrant Chinese New Year parade, turning Guangzhou's CBD into a massive cultural carnival.

At 11:30 AM, the procession kicked off from Liede Shengfu Square. The parade wound through spots including the village's main archways and the Tiande Centre.

This year's parade featured nine distinct thematic sections, including the "Eight Immortals," the "God of Wealth," and the "Dragon and Phoenix." Each troupe, dressed in ornate traditional costumes, carried prayers for prosperity and peace, engaging with a crowd of tens of thousands that lined the streets. Two robots dressed as the God of Wealth joined the parade for the first time this year, whose dance moves drew cheers from the crowd.

Liede, a village in Guangzhou's Tianhe district that has a history of over 900 years, pioneered urban renewal when its transformation began in 2007. Liede has evolved from a "village-within-the-city" into a vibrant community where ancestral halls and traditions sit alongside modern high-rises, turning into an international neighborhood. Original residents and expats from across the world share a deep sense of belonging through a calendar of colorful local festivities.

Lisa, a Russian expat who has lived in Liede for 14 years, was busy capturing the moment on her phone. "It's incredible to see such a colorful and vibrant celebration right on my doorstep," she said. "These festivals turn our streets into a window to traditional Chinese culture. They bring everyone together and build such a strong sense of community. This is exactly why I love living here."

Li Chiying, Chairman of the Liede Economic Development Co., Ltd., highlighted the deeper meaning behind the festivities. "We hold this parade year after year to pray for the prosperity and peace of our village and our country," he explained. "Families spanning generations are taking part in today's event together, showing the harmony and unity of Liede."

Reporter: Ding Hefei

Editor: Yin Juewen

Photo: Ding Hefei

Video: Ding Hefei