Expats joined locals celebrating Lantern Festival in Wuxi

Lizaveta takes a selfie with a friend at Huishan Ancient Town in Wuxi on March 3. [Photo by Mao Weijun/ provided to chinadaily.com.cn]

"A dear friend of mine just moved to Wuxi and now our new adventures begin. Though it is a little crowded tonight, I enjoyed experiencing the festive atmosphere here", said Lizaveta, who is from Russia.

Expats followed the crowds and watched a Kunqu opera performance and lion dances, which impressed them greatly.

According to Muhanmmad Aamir Shafique Khan, the most thrilling part of the evening was watching the mighty lion dance. "It was really inspiring and the way it was performed was incredible. The balance, steps and pitch of performers were perfect".

Visitors are captured by a Kunqu Opera performance at the Jichang Garden in Huishan Ancient Town on March 3. [Photo by Mao Weijun/ provided to chinadaily.com.cn]

The expat group also tried guessing lantern riddles on stage and took the opportunity to express their New Year wishes to the Chinese audience. Before leaving the ancient town, they came across the parade performers still in costume, and got the chance to take a photo with them.