As the Chinese New Year approaches, Tai'an in Shandong province has come alive with a burst of festiveness, and its historic open-air market, which opened on Jan 31, has become a place for tradition and celebration.

The festive atmosphere is enriched by vibrant dough figurines — including the legendary Monkey King, spirited horses for the zodiac year, and adorable rabbits — each crafted with remarkable realism and offered at affordable prices. Many parents happily picked them up as souvenirs for their children.

At one stall, a man choosing dough sculptures with his child shared, "It's wonderful to bring my kid here on the weekend. These figurines remind me of my own childhood — waiting eagerly during Chinese New Year markets to buy dough or sugar art. They're rare nowadays, so I'm glad my child can experience this tradition too."

Li Xuequan, a fourth-generation inheritor of Xintai dough sculpture, explained: "Dough sculpture, also called 'kneading figurines', has a history of over 100 years in Xintai. Letting children try it helps improve dexterity and sparks creativity." Nearby, young learners practiced shaping pumpkins and peppers under his guidance.

From Taishan sugar painting and Xintai dough sculpture to ornamental insect gourds, the fair brings together time-honored brands and heritage crafts. With over 300 stalls, it offered not only a diverse range of goods but also a tangible, flavorful journey into cultural memory.

As the Chinese New Year approaches, Tai'an in Shandong is filled with festive energy. [Photo/Taian Daily]