Jiuzhaigou Lantern Festival shines light on quake relief effort

Picturesque Jiuzhaigou county in Sichuan province held its 18th Lantern Festival Gala on March 2, in celebration of the 15th day of the first month of the lunar calendar.

Staged at the Cultural and Artistic Center Square of the Jiuzhaigou New Area, it was the first gala hosted since a 7.0-magnitude earthquake hit the county in August last year.

As a result, this year's celebrations featured elements that dealt with the reconstruction of the area after the disaster including prayers for safety and happiness, celebrating the beautiful natural landscape and praise for the Party and State.