Guangzhou flower fairs flourish despite economy

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Source: CCTV.com | 01-24-2009 14:19

As the Chinese Lunar New Year approaches, people in Guangzhou celebrate its arrival with flower fairs around the city. Local people hope fresh blooms will bring them good luck in the year of the ox.

Hundreds of varieties of fresh blooms are displayed at the fair. The annual flower fair adds to a joyous atmosphere in Guangzhou and transforms bustling Beijing Road into a sea of flowers.

Buying beautiful flowers at the fair has long been a Spring Festival tradition in Guangzhou. Locals decorate their homes with bunches of lovely flowers or send them to friends and relatives, in the hope the fresh blooms will bring them a fresh start and good luck in the new year.

The weakening economy has not dampened people's enthusiasm for buying flowers. Many bring family members, both the elderly and the young,

Guangzhou Resident, said, "This year's fair displays a large variety of flowers and they are especially beautiful."

Guangzhou Resident, said, "The decorations at the fair, like the golden ox, look very nice. l"

Golden tangerines are the best sellers at the fair each year. "Tangerine" sounds similar to "fortune" in Cantonese. Bringing a pot of golden tangerines home ahead of the new year's a traditional custom for many Guangzhou residents as they signify good luck and richness in the coming year.

Mr. Chen and his wife arrived at the fair early in the morning to select a pot of the best-looking golden tangerines.

Mr. Chen said, "this type is called Four-season Tangerines, which means happiness, health and luck all year round."

Although prices this year are relatively lower than previous years due to favorable and warm weather, florists anticipate better earnings from this year's fair.

Florist said, "Business is good this year. I have prepared several hundred potted tangerines for sale. There should be no problems selling them all."

The flower fair will last for three days, according to tradition. The joyous atmosphere is expected to reach its climax on the eve of the Lunar New Year on January 25th.

Editor:Du Xiaodan