Jinan welcomed spring by kicking off the 2026 Jinan Huazhao Festival at Daming Lake on March 28.

Blending traditional floral customs with modern cultural tourism, the festival offers visitors a vibrant celebration of spring. The opening ceremony featured graceful dance performances, highlighted by a runway presentation of 12 "flower goddesses." Dressed in exquisite hanfu (traditional Chinese costumes), the performers represented the symbolic flowers of each month, paying tribute to the enduring charm of Chinese cultural traditions.

The opening ceremony also included a lively market around Daming Lake, offering visitors the chance to try traditional snacks, engage in traditional crafts, and browse creative cultural souvenirs.

This year's celebrations are taking place throughout Jinan, linking major scenic sites with attractions in districts and counties across the city. The result is a one-of-a-kind spring travel experience.

While Daming Lake will serve as the main venue through April 6, related activities are also taking place at Wulongtan Park – currently at the height of its cherry blossom season – as well as Baotu Spring Park and Huancheng Park, which are hosting themed markets featuring local handicrafts and spring delicacies.

Running through late April, the festival integrates floral landscapes and interactive cultural events, offering a romantic way to experience Jinan's springtime charm and rich cultural heritage.

One of the twelve "flower goddesses" makes a stunning debut in traditional attire during the opening ceremony of the 2026 Jinan Huazhao Festival. [Photo/WeChat account: visitjinan]

A vibrant fair at Daming Lake is crowded with visitors. [Photo/WeChat account: visitjinan]