A line of banlong dancers walk on a piano-shaped bridge over the fish-scaled dame in Fuyang district. [Photo/tidenews.com.cn]

A mesmerizing 120-meter-long banlong (bench dragon) glided across the iconic fish-scaled dam in Hangzhou's Fuyang district on Feb 9, bringing the Lantern Festival celebrations to life with a dazzling display of tradition and unity.

Lantern Festival dragon dances symbolize prosperity and good fortune, a tradition deeply cherished by local villagers. This year, the fusion of the historic banlong dance with the viral fish-scaled dam made for an unforgettable spectacle, drawing both returning villagers and enthusiastic visitors.

The dancers are mostly female, ranging from teenagers to women in their 80s. [Photo/tidenews.com.cn]

The banlong dance, dating back to the Qing Dynasty (1644-1911), features a dragon body made of connected wooden benches. The all-female team, with members ranging from teenagers to women in their 80s, defies old customs that once barred women from performing dragon dances. Since its revival last year, the performance has reignited community spirit, with locals eagerly volunteering in every area – from crafting decorations to supporting dancers during the physically demanding routine.

Following tradition, the banlong must be performed for three consecutive years once revived. As the dragon crosses streams and winds through villages, spectators hang red cloth and offer blessings, praying for happiness and prosperity. Amid cheers and drumbeats, the Lantern Festival atmosphere in Hangzhou reached a fever pitch – an electrifying celebration of culture, resilience, and community pride.

The dancers walk in circles to create a stunning scene. [Photo/tidenews.com.cn]