Runners line up for the start of the 2026 Longhua New Year Run at Shenzhen North Railway Station Central Park in Longhua on Jan. 1. Photos courtesy of event organizer

With the sound of the starting pistol echoing through the morning air, nearly 1,000 runners gathered at Shenzhen North Railway Station Central Park in Longhua District to take part in the 2026 Longhua New Year Run — a 10-kilometer celebration of health, vitality, and fresh beginnings.

Held on the very first morning of 2026, the event was more than a race; it was a vivid expression of Longhua’s pursuit of high-quality urban living and its ambitious vision for the future.

A celebration of energy, culture, and community

Participants warm up ahead of the New Year Run.

From the festive beats of cheer squads to the graceful movements of a dancing qilin, the atmosphere was electric. Along the route, runners were treated to more than just scenic views. Interactive cultural zones showcased traditional Chinese crafts such as paper cutting and lacquer fan painting, giving participants a chance to pause, connect with local heritage, and appreciate the warmth of culture mid-run.

Meanwhile, tech-savvy runners explored the Huawei Sports Ecosystem Zone, where digital tools and fitness gear highlighted Longhua’s growing synergy between wellness and innovation.

Runners take part in the 2026 Longhua New Year Run along the Talent Greenway in Shenzhen’s Longhua District on Jan. 1.

A route that reflects Longhua’s character

Runners make their way along the scenic Talent Greenway in Longhua.

The 10-kilometer course wound through the Talent Greenway, China’s first greenway themed around talent and innovation. With stops at iconic sites such as Qiuzhi Garden, Shanshui Plaza, and the reflective Yingyue Lake, the route embodied a perfect blend of natural beauty, cultural resonance, and forward-looking urban design.

Souvenirs with meaning

A limitededition Year of the Horse medal and charm await runners who complete the race.

Finishers were rewarded with a limited-edition Year of the Horse medal and charm. The charm, a cheerful pony carrying a treasure, symbolized the hopeful wish to “prosper right away” in the new year. The medal, inspired by the phrase "Longma Spirit" — meaning vigor and determination — was adorned with iconic Longhua landmarks and the district’s sunrise-shaped logo, representing vitality, ambition, and renewal.

Participants took to social media to share their joy:

“Running with a thousand others on the first day of the New Year — unforgettable! The route was beautiful, the organization flawless, and the souvenir is a treasure.”

“This run is my gift to 2026 — and I’m ready to sprint into the year ahead!”

Running into the future: Longhua’s vision in motion

Runners exchange smiles and waves with cheering spectators along the course.

This New Year Run was more than a one-day event — it was a powerful symbol of Longhua’s commitment to community wellness, and a lively demonstration of how sports can drive public engagement, urban pride, and quality of life.

By integrating digital innovation, eco-conscious planning, and people-centered services, the event showcased the strength of Longhua’s “Three Transformations” vision:

Digital Longhua, green Longhua, and livable Longhua.

As Longhua continues to invest in sports, culture, and urban innovation, one thing is clear: this district isn’t just running for fun — it’s running toward a vibrant, inclusive, and inspiring future.

Here’s to a year of movement, progress, and possibility. May everyone in Longhua run boldly on their own paths in 2026 — with purpose in every stride.