Futian CBD to light up for Spring Festival

Crowds gather at Civic Center to watch the drone and light show marking the 45th anniversary of the Shenzhen Special Economic Zone on Aug. 26, 2025. Cai Weize

Shenzhen’s skyline is ready to glow for the Lunar New Year.

The Futian CBD will launch a special Spring Festival edition of its night light show from Feb. 14 to Feb. 23, illuminating the city center for 10 consecutive nights with festive-themed displays.

Each evening, three sessions will take place at 7 p.m., 8 p.m. and 9 p.m.

Residents and visitors are encouraged to plan ahead and reserve early.

Where to watch

Civic Center (reservation required)

An aerial view of Civic Center in Futian. File photo

The main viewing area is Civic Center in Futian District, offering close-up and upward views ideal for photography.

The plaza is divided into four designated viewing zones, so visitors should check the official area map before booking. Entry requires a reservation and a valid QR code.

Arrive at least 30 minutes before your scheduled session and enter through the correct gate.

Lianhua Hill summit (no reservation required)

For a panoramic, bird’s-eye view of the illuminated skyline, head to Lianhua Hill.Space at the summit is limited and crowds are expected.

A view of the Civic Center from the Lianhua Hill summit. Xinhua

Shenzhen Children's Palace (no reservation required)

Located slightly away from the core area, this spot typically sees fewer visitors while still offering views of most of the display.

Metro: Lines 2/8 or 4, Civic Center Station (市民中心站), Exit A or F

How to make a reservation

Click below to make reservations via the official “Futian CBD Nightscape Lighting Reservation and Guidance Service” mini program.

Reservations open at 10 a.m. three days before each show date. For example: Reservations for the Feb. 14 show open at 10 a.m. on Feb. 12.

Each visitor must present a valid reservation QR code for entry.

Reservation rules

One person, one QR code. Group bookings may include up to three people.

Late arrivals will not be admitted.

If you cannot attend, cancel in advance. Three no-shows within 30 natural days will result in temporary suspension of booking privileges.

Showtimes may be adjusted or canceled in case of severe weather or official meteorological warnings.

Visitors should book through the official reservation platform.

A festive drone formation lights up the night sky over Futian during the Shenzhen Special Economic Zone's 45th anniversary celebration. Shenzhen Special Zone Daily

Entry & safety guidelines

To ensure a safe and comfortable viewing experience:

Travel light. Large luggage is discouraged.

Tripods, large selfie sticks, drones and other filming equipment are prohibited in designated areas.

Skateboards, roller skates, flammable or explosive materials, electric scooters, bicycles, baby strollers and pets are not permitted.

Please observe civilized viewing practices: no loud noise, no littering, no damage to public property and no unauthorized vending.

Public security and traffic police may implement temporary crowd-control measures depending on on-site conditions.

Transportation reminder

Parking spaces around Civic Center are extremely limited. Authorities will strictly enforce illegal parking regulations and may introduce temporary road controls.

Visitors are strongly encouraged to use public transportation and choose green travel options.

A New Year tradition in lights

In recent years, the Futian CBD light show has become part of Shenzhen’s modern Spring Festival ritual. This year’s edition will feature specially designed New Year-themed visuals, adding extra color and celebration to the city skyline.