Published: 10:13, February 8, 2024 | Updated: 16:59, February 8, 2024
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The dragon comes to life
By Andy Chong

A dragon dance is performed at a packed Hong Kong Stadium before a friendly soccer match on Feb 4, 2024. (ANDY CHONG / CHINA DAILY)

The dragon — the majestic symbol of blessings in Chinese culture — enjoys special status in China as the Year of the Dragon approaches. Hong Kong, where tradition meets modernity, is energized by the joyful celebrations that are bringing to life the imaginary creature through amazing designs and innovative materials. China Daily photographer Andy Chong explores Hong Kong’s streets adorned with dragon-inspired decorations, and captures the essence of luck and happiness they bring.

READ MORE: Rise of the dragon

Visitors appreciate an art installation made from over 6,000 burning incense sticks, featuring the Tai Hang Fire Dragon — a century-old ritual tool believed to ward off diseases and disasters — at The Local Dragon Quest exhibition at Kai Tak Airside Plaza on Jan 31, 2024. (ANDY CHONG / CHINA DAILY)

A 32.8-meter-long dragon crafted from 38,000 biodegradable balloons is displayed at Tuen Mun Town Plaza in Tuen Mun on Jan 31, 2024. (ANDY CHONG / CHINA DAILY)

Visitors take photos of an 8-meter-long golden dragon installation at Lee Tung Street, Wan Chai, on Feb 1, 2024. The installation is also part of a lantern exhibition that illuminates the surrounding area at night. (ANDY CHONG / CHINA DAILY)

A visitor takes a selfie with a tattoo pattern art piece, created by local tattoo artists, at The Local Dragon Quest exhibition at Kai Tak Airside Plaza on Jan 31, 2024. (ANDY CHONG / CHINA DAILY)

A visitor admires an exquisite hanging dragon sculpture, inspired by the decorations that adorned high-end restaurants in the 1970s, at an exhibition at Kai Tak Airside Plaza on Jan 31, 2024. (ANDY CHONG / CHINA DAILY)

Visitors take photos in front of a handcrafted, 14-meter-long paper dragon at Telford Plaza in Kowloon Bay on Feb 1, 2024. (ANDY CHONG / CHINA DAILY)