Illuminated drones transformed the night skyline and elaborate lantern displays shone bright on Saturday evening in Pinghu, east China's Zhejiang Province, as the ancient city celebrated the coming arrival of the Spring Festival.

Held to celebrate the upcoming Year of the Horse, the stunning light show unfolded at around 18:30 on a square near the Donghu Lake in the city, with 700 drones taking flight and moving together in perfect synchrony to paint glowing shapes across the night sky.

The choreographed drones arranged themselves into various formations to depict Pinghu's historic sites and cultural attractions, Spring Festival symbols and traditional Chinese cultural images, in a spectacular display of modern technology.

"After watching this drone show, I feel that China is now really advanced in technology. Nowadays, drone shows have replaced the traditional fireworks, offering us a different Chinese New Year experience," said a tourist visiting the city.

Following the drone displays, 45 sets of large lantern displays lit up simultaneously, depicting aspects of traditional culture and festive celebration. The displays were arranged in four themes around the lake, stretching 72,000 square meters.

"This is so amazing for those of us from Pinghu. I'm dazzled by these lanterns. This light show is very rich in culture with many horse-themed displays," a local resident said.

The opening day of the light show also featured cultural performances such as traditional lion dances and acrobatic stunts. As celebrations continue, 20 similar performances will be staged at around 17:30 each day.

The light show is set to last until March 22.

The 2026 Spring Festival falls on Feb 17, marking the beginning of the Year of the Horse, the seventh animal in the 12-year cycle of the Chinese zodiac.