Pear blossoms festival returns to Laiyang

Pear blossoms are in full bloom in Laiyang, Yantai, East China's Shandong province. [Photo provided to chinadaily.com.cn]

The 2019 Laiyang Pear Blossom Festival will be unveiled on April 13 in celebration of the 70th anniversary of the People's Republic of China, according to a press conference held in Jinan on April 9.

Laiyang, a county-level city in Yantai, is famed in China for its sweet juicy pears and has been holding the pear blossom festival for 28 years. The annual festival has become an important vehicle for Laiyang to promote its pear culture and featured products.

Apart from offering splendid views of pear blossoms, this year's festival has also prepared a wide range of activities at Pear Tourism Scenic Spot in Zhaowang Town.

Tens of thousands of people will sing "Ode to the Motherland" to celebrate the 70th anniversary of the People's Republic of China at the opening ceremony, and a series of theatrical performances will also be held.

During the 11-day event, visitors will have the chance to enjoy the stunning pear blossoms, taste the many pear-inspired delicacies and participate in various activities such as a photography competition and self-driving experience.

A fair for featured agricultural and sideline products will also be held.

Laiyang pears are yellow-green in color and have a juicy, succulent interior. They have been used as an imperial tribute since the reign of Emperor Wanli during the Ming Dynasty (1574-1620).