A large-scale open-air exhibition of commodities opened at a square in front of the Potala Palace in this capital of the Tibet Autonomous Region recently to mark the traditional Chinese New Year, which falls on February 12 and the Tibetan New Year the following day.
On show are more than 10,000 types of goods including garments,food, handicrafts and durable items provided by 200 shops and enterprises.
The exhibition kicks off the annual festival spending frenzy and a long holiday in Tibet.
"It's easy to buy whatever you want here any time. But the fair adds to the holiday mood," said a young Tibetan woman.
A variety of tea parties, get-togethers and symposiums have been held over the past few days. People of the Han, Tibetan and other ethnic groups in Tibet can be seen exchanging festival greetings, and vendors are selling holiday-related gifts and decorations on main streets.
More than 10,000 government officials at various levels have visited grassroots units to give relief funds and materials to households in need.
(Xinhua News Agency February 8, 2002)
