Zheng Wen, cultural counselor at the Consulate General of China in Houston, gives a speech.[Photo/Chinaculture.org]

Zheng Wen said that lanterns represent festivity and happiness in traditional Chinese culture, which coincides with celebrations of the 70th birthday of the People's Republic of China.

At the same time, he said he looks forward to more collaboration and development in culture and tourism with Miami and other regions.

Francis Suarez said the art of Chinese lanterns has made Miami a more diverse and beautiful coastal city.