The Hangzhou-Verona New Year Cultural Market Photo provided to Hangzhoufeel
The drone show over West Lake Photo provided to Hangzhoufeel
By Jin Yingying
On the evening of Dec 27, 2024, a fleet of 1,500 drones illuminated the sky above the West Lake Music Fountain.
Titled “Born of Love, Love at West Lake”, this Hangzhou-Verona-themed performance featured the largest drone display ever held over West Lake. With glowing blue lights, the drones traced the cityscape of Verona, Italy, highlighting iconic landmarks like the Roman amphitheater, figures such as Romeo and Juliet, and elements from the Chinese legend of The Butterfly Lovers.
2024 marks the 20th anniversary of the establishment of the comprehensive strategic partnership between China and Italy, and the fifth anniversary of the friendship city ties between Hangzhou and Verona. The drone show was part of the Hangzhou-Verona New Year Cultural Event, celebrating this milestone.
Flash mob performances featuring classic music pieces by Italian vocalists and teachers and students from the Zhejiang Conservatory of Music captivated both locals and visitors by West Lake.
Meanwhile, the “Hangzhou-Verona New Year Cultural Market” recently opened at Hubin Park, by West Lake, bringing together dozens of unique stalls offering visitors a chance to immerse themselves in the cultural essence and charm of both China and Italy.
The market showcases brilliant Italian craftsmanship. Among the artists present was Mattia Barone, an Italian sculptor from Milan, who brought intricate marble sculptures to display. On his works, he carved the word “love” in three languages: Chinese, English, and Italian. “I created this as a charm for everyone,” said Barone. “It’s a symbol of love and good luck for all who encounter it.”
The market also features a series of creative installations that beautifully blend the romantic cultural elements of both West Lake and Verona. The “New Year Wish Wall”, cultural fusion photo spots, and the “Love on West Lake” light installation were among the eye-catching pieces for photos and New Year memories.
Visitors can hang “love locks”on the Wish Wall, symbolizing commitment and eternal love, a tradition rooted in Verona’s iconic Romeo and Juliet story. Simultaneously, traditional prayer ribbons offer guests a chance to write their wishes for the New Year, creating a bridge between the two cultures.