Baomo Garden has launched its much-anticipated Lychee Cultural Festival on June 15, celebrating the beloved fruit through vibrant Cantonese opera performances, cultural activities, and culinary delights. 

The festivities will continue with special events on June 21 and 22. Visitors who purchase a combined ticket for Baomo Garden and Nanyue Garden on June 21 or 22 will receive a free lychee fruit basket.

The garden's historic lychee trees, some of which are over a hundred years old, are now laden with fruit. Visitors can see a variety of local lychees in the garden, such as the Guiwei, Huaizhi and Feizixiao. Their ruby-red clusters create a striking contrast against the classical Lingnan architecture — grey-tiled roofs, tranquil pavilions, and winding corridors.

Over a dozen Cantonese opera performances will take place at two stages in the garden, including timeless classics such as Blossoms Under the Moon, Ode to the Lychee and The Palace of Eternal Life. A fun guessing game will engage younger visitors, introducing them to the Cantonese opera’s singing, recitation, acting, and martial arts.

At 11:40 a.m., performers in full Cantonese opera costumes will parade from the Yilinyuan (藝林苑) Archway to the Fengweiguan (風味館) restaurant, offering great photo opportunities and interactions with performers.

In keeping with the Lingnan culinary principle of 'seasonal eating', the garden’s chefs have created a special lychee-themed menu, reinventing classic dishes such as sweet and sour pork with lychee, lychee prawn balls, and serving innovative lychee desserts.

Whether you're a culture enthusiast, a foodie, or just in search of a picturesque spot, this festival promises an unforgettable summer experience.

Source and photos: Guangzhou Daily

Author: Annie