The 9th Asian Winter Games in Harbin just got a sprinkle of traditional charm! As athletes from across Asia compete in icy showdowns , they're also diving into the magic of China's Lantern Festival—a vibrant celebration marking the first full moon of the lunar year.
Picture this: Olympians swapping skates for crafting kits, designing lanterns adorned with wishes for their homelands. From South Korea’s speed skaters to Japan’s snowboarders, guests embraced the joy of making tangyuan (sweet glutinous rice balls
), symbolizing family reunion and hope. \"It's like tasting victory—but sweeter!\" laughed one participant.
The fusion of sports and tradition didn’t stop there! Athletes learned folk dances from China’s northeast, turning the Games into a cultural playground. \"Sharing our heritage feels as rewarding as winning gold,\" said a Thai figure skater.
With the hashtag #WinterAndWarmth trending, this crossover proves sports aren’t just about records—they’re bridges connecting hearts across Asia .
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Live: Celebrate a magical Lantern Festival during Asian Winter Games
cgtn.com