THERE was a time when Shenzhen was still just a “workplace” for those who moved here from their home cities. Every Spring Festival, they traveled back homes to celebrate the long holiday with their families and friends, leaving Shenzhen as one of the “least festive” cities in China. However, times have changed. Today’s Shenzhen is no longer a workplace but a true home to many people living in the city. Because of that, Shenzhen is now no longer a ghost town during Spring Festival but a festive destination that offers plenty of activities for those who spend the big holiday here. Here are some recommended places for you to spend Spring Festival in Shenzhen.

    Splendid China•China Folk Culture Villages: North and South Temple Fair

    A temple fair is a traditional Spring Festival activity in northern China. This activity was originally a form of entertainment organized by Buddhist and Taoist temples in order to transmit the tenets and encourage people to devote their lives to the faith through performance such as dances and plays, temple tours and much more. Today, temple fairs are some of the most important festival activities around China.

    In Shenzhen, Splendid China•China Folk Culture Villages in Nanshan District is offering this festive and traditional experience. Similar to temple fairs in the north, there are many traditional activities and folk arts such as dragon and lion dances, stilt walking, magic tricks, drum performances and local operas from different parts of the country.

    Time: Feb. 1-22, 9 a.m.-10:30 p.m.

    Ticket: 180 yuan per adult

    Add: 9003 Shennan Boulevard, Overseas China Town, Nanshan District

    OCT East: Worship Carnival

    OCT East is also offering an amazing experience for those who are looking for a traditional experience during this year’s Spring Festival.

    A temple fair will be held at the venue during the festival season. The fair mainly focuses on traditional delicacies and handicrafts. Various types of local festive foods and crafts from all around China can be found there.

    At 8 p.m. Sunday, a large worship ceremony will be held at Dahuaxing Temple at OCT East. The ceremony will feature a series of worship activities. People will be able to join a wish-making ceremony, write Fu (luck), and pass on festive lanterns with monks at the temple, sending their best wishes and luck to their families and friends.

    Time: Feb. 7-22

    Ticket: 290 yuan per adult for Grand Valley and Tea Valley

    Add: OCT East, Dameisha, Yantian District

    Happy Valley: International clown festival

    Spring Festival is not just about traditions and customs. It is also about joy and laughter. If you are looking for something fun and child-friendly to do, Happy Valley will be the place to go.

    During the festival, clown masters from countries such as Russia and Ukraine will be invited to Happy Valley, putting on their best street performances for visitors. They will play tricks, juggle and dance in Happy Square and Magic Square, sending their best wishes to children around the park.

    In addition, there are about 30 celebration activities being held at the park during the festival. A singing and dancing gala will also be held at the venue every day from Feb. 8 to 13.

    Time: Feb. 8-22

    Ticket: 200 yuan per adult

    Add: 1 Qiaocheng Road West, Nanshan District

(Please see P11 for more activities in Shenzhen and Hong Kong)