LONDON, March 1 (Xinhua) -- Throngs of local residents and tourists took part in the latest celebrations of the Chinese New Year from Friday to Sunday at King's Cross Canopy Market in London, days before the 2026 Lantern Festival due on Tuesday.
During the event, more than 200 Chinese lanterns, blessing characters and paper-cutting works added a strong festive touch to the venue. Chinese folk music, traditional clothing, dance and Kung Fu performances attracted many visitors actively participating in various workshops featuring Chinese calligraphy, woodblock print and tea tasting.
A Chinese product market was also open to the public at the event, with more than 20 stalls selling various products, including food, tea, crafts and costumes.
Shi Hanfei, a stall owner of Chinese calligraphy, seal cutting, and festival ornaments, was amazed that accessories attached with Chinese festival greetings are popular among local people. "The products sell well, visitors are very curious about Chinese characters and ask me about the meaning of all the greetings," she said, noting some even come to repurchase the products for their family and friends.
Jovana Philip and her friend Amina Shah tried on Hanfu and actively asked the stall owner about the craftsmanship details of the costumes. After experiencing Chinese calligraphy and woodcarving and tasting various Chinese foods, Philip said she enjoyed the festive atmosphere at the market and really likes Chinese lanterns. "I want to know more about the festival," she said.
As a fan of Chinese TV dramas, Shah has a strong interest in Chinese history and culture. She often watches videos about China with her friends and is looking forward to visiting China this year to experience local life.
Fabio Diu, director of the Canopy Market and one of the co-sponsors of the event, said he was glad to see visitors better understand Chinese culture and the Chinese New Year by participating in person and through intensive communication. He also expected to hold a larger-scale Mid-Autumn Festival event this year.
