Applications for viewing slots to the highly-anticipated Chinese New Year fireworks show over the Pearl River will open on Sunday. The Guangzhou municipal government made the announcement at press briefing on Wednesday outlining festive activities for the holiday period.

The flagship event at the Bai’etan section of the Pearl River is scheduled for 8 pm on Feb 17, the first day of the Chinese New Year.

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This year’s fireworks show will feature over 150,000 pyrotechnic devices, including 75 newly developed types. High-altitude fireworks — increased by nearly 2,000 from last year’s show — will dominate the display, while four specialized barges and 10 floating platforms will optimize visual coverage as high as 225 meters across an 800-meter span, ensuring even distant viewers can enjoy the spectacle.  

The 45-minute performance is structured into five thematic segments, including "harvest abundance", a segment debuting visual sequences showing the first time in China.

Accompanied by orchestral arrangements of symphonies as well as Cantonese folk melodies, the show is also complemented by eight synchronized laser projectors.

How to experience the magic

Total 180,000 slots will be allocated across 17 viewing zones in Liwan, Yuexiu, and Haizhu districts. The application process, which uses a lottery system, begins at 2 pm on Sunday and closes at 11:59 pm on Tuesday. The results, drawn through a lottery, will be announced on Feb 13.

Applicants can register via the WeChat accounts, WeChat mini-programs or apps of Guangzhou municipal government, Guangzhou’s Liwan district government, Guangzhou Daily and Guangzhou Radio and Television Station.

For those unable to secure onsite slots, Pearl River cruises and nearby restaurants with clear views of Bai’etan will offer special packages that will combine dining with prime fireworks viewing. The event will also be broadcast live in high definition by Guangzhou Radio and Television Station for remote audiences. 

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In alignment with eco-friendly initiatives, the fireworks will utilize carbon-neutral materials to minimize environmental impact.

Authorities have also advised attendees to heed temporary traffic controls around viewing zones and to prioritize public transportation to ensure safety and orderly crowd management.