The southern Chinese metropolis of Guangzhou is preparing to welcome the Year of the Horse with an unprecedented fireworks spectacle over the Pearl River on February 17. Municipal authorities have announced a comprehensive 45-minute pyrotechnic display that will transform the city’s waterfront into a dazzling canvas of light and color.
According to Ke Xiandong, Deputy Director of Guangzhou’s Bureau of Culture, Broadcast, Television and Tourism, this year’s exhibition will feature over 150,000 fireworks launched across high, medium, and low altitudes. The production incorporates significant technological enhancements, including 75 new firework varieties that expand the chromatic range while maintaining environmental sustainability through carbon-neutral products.
The operational infrastructure has been substantially upgraded with four professional firing vessels and ten floating platforms strategically positioned along the Pearl River—increasing both the visual span to 800 meters and maximum altitude to 225 meters. This configuration ensures optimal visibility for spectators throughout the metropolitan area.
The fireworks presentation serves as the centerpiece of Guangzhou’s “Celebrate Chinese New Year in Guangzhou, Admire Flowers in the City of Flowers” festival series. Complementary activities include traditional flower market tours, Spring Festival lantern exhibitions, cultural site visits, and Lingnan culinary experiences.
To accommodate anticipated large crowds while ensuring public safety, authorities have established 180,000 designated viewing spots across 17 zones in Liwan, Haizhu, and Yuexiu districts. Access will be regulated through a reservation and lottery system open from February 8-10, with results announced on February 12. The comprehensive crowd management plan reflects the city’s commitment to combining cultural celebration with public safety protocols.