Laiwu District, Jinan: A Lake Full of Fresh Catch, A City Full of Festive Spirit
On the morning of May 1, the 2026 First Jinan Xueye Lake Fishing Opening Festival officially kicked off at Poxinwan Pier in Xueye Lake, Laiwu District, Jinan. With the sound of the ceremonial gong echoing across the water, the tranquil lake, dormant through winter, seemed to awaken instantly, ushering in a vibrant lakeside celebration.
By around 9 a.m., the pier was already alive with fluttering banners and bustling crowds. Drumbeats thundered as performances by local song and dance troupes ignited the festive atmosphere. A solemn fish release ceremony expressed people’s hopes for abundance and prosperity year after year. Amid cheers and applause, dozens of fishing boats adorned with colorful flags surged toward the heart of the lake, opening a spectacular “harvest on the water.”
Across the vast blue waters of Xueye Lake, experienced fishermen worked in seamless coordination, maneuvering their boats and hauling in massive nets. In moments, the once-calm surface erupted with energy as thousands of silver carp and bighead carp leapt wildly in the nets, scales shimmering in the sunlight and water splashing into the air. The lively scene of “jumping fish and cheering crowds” unfolded like a living painting between lake and sky, drawing constant gasps and camera clicks from visitors along the shore.
The most anticipated moment came with the unveiling and auction of the “first fish” of the season. Earlier, a fish-weight guessing game had already stirred excitement among tourists eager to witness the symbolic catch. When a giant black carp was finally carried onto the stage, gleaming beneath the sun, the crowd burst into applause. After several rounds of spirited bidding, the 31.8-kilogram “first fish” was sold for 38,888 yuan. Proceeds from the auction will support public welfare projects such as rural assistance and bird conservation, allowing visitors from across the country to share in the blessings of Xueye Lake’s harvest.
During the day, Xueye Lake brimmed with excitement and lively activity. As night fell, however, the lake transformed into a scene of romance and tranquility. The lakeside folk music event, “Fishing Lights and Starlit Songs,” filled the evening air, with bands from Jinan and Laiwu taking turns on stage. Their melodies drifted gently across the water with the cool night breeze.
Along the shore, dazzling molten iron fireworks erupted into showers of sparks, reflecting brilliantly on the lake and illuminating smiling faces. Painted pleasure boats glided through the night, carrying visitors on dreamy sightseeing tours as lights from both banks shimmered across the water. Nearby, in the floating lantern blessing area, glowing river lanterns carrying heartfelt wishes drifted slowly downstream, adding warmth and tenderness to the peaceful nightscape.
As the May Day holiday continued, the Xueye Lake Fishing Opening Festival quickly became one of the most popular short-getaway destinations near Jinan. With its seamless blend of daytime excitement and nighttime entertainment, the festival has added a striking new lakeside attraction to the cultural tourism landscape of the City of Springs.
