Haikou, the coastal capital of Hainan Province in southern China, dazzled visitors with a stunning display of technology and artistry during the 2025 Lantern Festival on February 12. The event, which combined an extraordinary drone show and fireworks display, illuminated the skies above the city and marked a historic moment for the region.
In a first for the city, the largest drone show in Haikou’s history took place over downtown Evergreen Park, featuring 3,000 drones that moved in perfect synchronisation. The light show created stunning images in the sky, with iconic Hainan-themed visuals such as coconut trees and bougainvillea flowers shining brightly, their glow reflected in the city skyline below. The precision of the drones’ movements highlighted the fusion of cutting-edge technology with artistic design, captivating the thousands of spectators gathered to witness the spectacle.
As the drone display concluded, the fireworks show took centre stage, setting the night alight. At precisely 9 p.m., Haikou Bay erupted in a thunderous roar as thousands of golden meteors shot into the air, their sparkling trails painting the heavens. The event marked the first fireworks show in Haikou in 13 years, and it was no ordinary display — this was a level-1 fireworks show, the highest and most dramatic level of pyrotechnics available. The grand finale featured ‘Rainbow Lucky Cloud’ fireworks in soft cotton candy hues, bringing the awe-inspiring show to a spectacular close.
Visible across three of Haikou’s districts — Meilan, Longhua, and Xiuying — the fireworks illuminated a six-kilometre stretch of coastline, providing ample space for spectators to enjoy the event. Iconic landmarks, including the Wormhole Library, Century Park, and HCC Plaza, were prime vantage points, attracting large crowds eager to witness the magnificent display.
The night’s entertainment was more than just a visual feast. Haikou, a city steeped in culture, also seized the opportunity to showcase its rich intangible cultural heritage, blending modern technology with traditional elements. Over 60 events were held during the Lantern Festival period, including the Flower Exchange Festival Art Week, providing a diverse array of activities for visitors and boosting the local economy.
This year’s Lantern Festival in Haikou marked a new chapter in the city’s cultural celebrations, combining high-tech innovation with the region’s traditional customs. The successful event demonstrated the growing role of technology in enhancing cultural festivals, making the 2025 Lantern Festival an unforgettable occasion for locals and tourists alike.
