A festive food fair drew crowds to Ulan Mulun Lake in Kangbashi District on March 3, offering free sweet dumplings and milk tea to residents and visitors alike as part of the Lantern Festival celebrations.

Sweet dumplings bubbled in large cauldrons

Sweet dumplings bubbled in large cauldrons, releasing the rich aroma of classic fillings such as black sesame, five-nut mix, and red dates. Nearby, freshly brewed milk tea filled the air with its buttery fragrance—a warm delight on the festive day. Staff handed out the treats in an orderly fashion, and smiles spread across faces as people savored the soft, chewy dumplings and smooth, warm tea.

Milk tea filled the air with its buttery fragrance.

Rows of food stalls lined the exhibition area, each brimming with local flavors. Sizzling mutton kebabs dripped with savory juices, while creamy milk skins melted on the tongue—comforting tastes that evoke fond memories for locals. Long queues formed in front of stalls selling tanghulu (candied hawthorns on sticks) and liangpi (cold wheat noodles), adding to the lively, bustling atmosphere.

The event offered more than just a taste of tradition—it brought the warmth of the festival to the heart of the community, making this Lantern Festival a truly soothing experience for both body and soul.