As the Year of the Horse gallops closer, Yangzhou is embracing the festive spirit with a diverse array of creative offerings, setting the stage for a season filled with auspicious energy and artistic flair.

Yangzhou craftswoman Meng Xiaohong creates horse-themed dough sculptures. [Photo/WeChat account: yzs_lyj]

Master dough sculptor Meng Xiaohong has crafted over a dozen horse-themed creations, from galloping steeds to whimsical foals. Among these innovative pieces are designs that incorporate traditional auspicious symbols. For instance, a horse draped in a colorful saddle, surrounded by gold ingots and lucky clouds, promises prosperity.

A horse-themed paper cutting from Yangzhou artisan Wang Ying. [Photo/WeChat account: yzs_lyj]

Yangzhou's paper-cutting artistry also shines. Practitioner Wang Ying employs vivid red paper and detailed cuts to bring horses to life. Her designs include a lively galloping horse that looks as if it's about to jump off the page and a horse surrounded by copper coins, symbolizing prosperity and fortune.

Horse-shaped keychains for sale at the Mausoleum Park of Sui Emperor Yang Guang's creative product shop. [Photo/WeChat account: yzs_lyj]

Beyond traditional crafts, souvenir stores at scenic spots are adding their own flair.

The creative product shop at the Mausoleum Park of Sui Emperor Yang Guang now offers horse-shaped keychains. At the store in the Yunhe Sanwan scenic area, a plush slipper steals the spotlight with a unicorn-inspired horse design and delicate embroidery.