End of zero-Covid policy allows family gatherings and largest festivities since pandemic began
People watch a fire breather in Qinglonghu Park, Beijing, as part of the lunar new year spring festival programme.People watch a fire breather in Qinglonghu Park, Beijing, as part of the lunar new year spring festival programme.Last modified on Sun 22 Jan 2023 05.42 GMThave rung in the lunar new year with family gatherings and crowds visiting temples after the government lifted its strict zero-Covid policy, marking the biggest festive celebration since the pandemic began three years ago.
With the easing of most Covid-19 restrictions many people could finally make their first trip back to their home towns to reunite with their families without worrying about the hassles of quarantine, potential lockdowns and suspension of travel. Larger public celebrations also returned for what is known as the spring festival in China, with the capital hosting thousands of cultural events – on a larger scale than a year ago.
At Taoranting Park there was no sign of the usual bustling new year food stalls despite its walkways being decorated with traditional Chinese lanterns. A popular temple fair at Badachu Park will be back this week, but similar events at Ditan Park and Longtan Lake Park have yet to return.In Hong Kong, people flocked to the city’s largest Taoist temple, Wong Tai Sin, to burn the first incense sticks of the year. The site’s popular ritual was suspended for the last two years due to the pandemic.
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