“Nihao! China” Horse Lantern Show in Stockholm

On February 1, 2026, Stockholm’s Kungsträdgården became a grand stage for the Chinese New Year celebrations. The opening ceremony of “Nihao! China”  Horse Lantern Show was held here, marking the beginning of nearly a month of festivities to welcome the Year of the Horse. Starting from 4 p.m., Kungsträdgården  gradually filled with an expectant crowd. Mr. Wan Degang, Chargé d’Affaires ad interim of the Chinese Embassy in Sweden, Li Rui, Counsellor for Cultural Affairs and Director of China Cultural Center in Stockholm, together with thousands of local Swedish friends, culture enthusiasts, Chinese families, and citizens drawn by the dazzling lanterns, gathered in the snowy winter night to witness this heartwarming moment and welcome the arrival of the Year of the Horse amidst the radiant glow of the lantern show.

In his speech, Mran Degang noted that 2026 is the Year of the Horse in the Chinese lunar calendar. In Chinese culture, the horse symbolizes vibrant energy, unwavering determination, and the courage to forge ahead, while in Swedish culture, it represents family protection and happiness. The “Success at A Gallop” lantern exhibition embodies the aspirations of the Chinese and Swedish people for a better life and their wishes for global peace and prosperity. He extended his heartfelt wishes for a joyful and prosperous Year of the Horse. Together with Counsellor Li Rui and other distinguished guests, Mr. Wan Degang lit the horse-themed lanterns and presented the audience with festive gift bags symbolizing “auspiciousness in the Year of the Horse.” Accompanied by lively drumbeats, four majestic horses, glowing brilliantly with heads held high and hooves raised, illuminated the winter night in Kungsträdgården Square with dazzling splendor.

The traditional Chinese cultural performances at the event brought the atmosphere to a climax. A dragon dance troupe took the stage first, weaving through the crowd, while spirited lions leaped and played to the rhythm of drums, eliciting cheers from the audience. Local Chinese community groups also performed captivating songs, dances, and a fashion show. The enchanting cultural performances complemented the radiant lanterns, creating a joyful atmosphere of shared beauty and celebration.

Many Swedish families brought their children to experience the event, with numerous locals visiting the Chinese Spring Festival lantern exhibition for the third consecutive year. “This has become a winter tradition for our family,” shared a Swedish spectator attending with her two children. “The children especially love these glowing horses, and we’re also learning about the zodiac stories in Chinese culture.” Chinese and Swedish attendees admired the lanterns together, exchanged New Year greetings, took photos, and continuously applauded and cheered. The festive and harmonious atmosphere made the event a beautiful highlight of Stockholm’s winter night.

“Nihao! China”  Horse Lantern Show will remain open to the public for free at Stockholm’s Kungsträdgården until February 28. During the Spring Festival, China Cultural Center in Stockholm will continue to host more exciting events. Everyone is welcome to follow and participate.