Light is a universal symbol of civilization, warmth, and hope, but nowhere shines brighter than Zigong. Every year, around the Spring Festival, this city in Sichuan Province hosts a grand lantern festival that has become its signature event.  

“The lantern festival is an important part of Spring Festival traditions,” says Shen Hongyue, President of the Zigong Lantern Industry Association. “It reflects people’s hopes for a better life and lets us celebrate the New Year while experiencing China’s rich history and culture.”  

This year, the 31st Zigong International Dinosaur Lantern Festival opens on January 17. Highlights include giant white and green snake lanterns inspired by the Legend of the White Snake, celebrating the Year of the Snake. Visitors will step into a world of fantasy and romance. Other attractions feature a 55-meter gate inspired by Zigong’s paper-cutting art, a “Harvest” lantern set made with glass bottles, a 9-meter-tall “God of Wealth” lantern, and a 220-meter-long “Glorious China” display.  

Ticket Info:

Spring Festival (Jan 29–Feb 12):  

  Adults: 168 yuan | Seniors/Students: 98 yuan  

Off-Peak (Jan 18–27 & Feb 13 onwards):  

  Adults: 118 yuan | Seniors/Students: 80 yuan  

Special packages like “hotel + ticket” and combo deals are available. Free entry is offered to children under 1.3m, seniors over 70, tour guides, firefighters, and disabled visitors with valid ID. Free tickets require online booking via the official WeChat account.  

The festival features seven themed zones, including “Welcoming Spring,” “Jurassic (侏罗纪的) Valley,” and “Path of Flowers,” creating a magical experience. As the Spring Festival approaches, Zigong invites visitors from around the world to join this unforgettable celebration with family and friends.

1.1.What can be inferred about the Zigong Lantern Festival’s role in local culture?

A It is primarily a commercial event.

B It is deeply tied to cultural expression.

C It focuses on attracting international tourists.

D It is a recent addition to Zigong’s events.

解析：选B。B 推理判断题。根据第二段中的“The lantern festival is an important part of Spring Festival traditions”“It reflects people’s hopes for a better life and lets us celebrate the New Year while experiencing China’s rich history and culture.”灯会是春节的重要组成部分，反映了人们对美好生活的追求，同时展示了中国的历史和文化。即它与文化表达紧密相连。故选B。

2.2.If Lili visits the lantern festival with her 73-year-old parents, her husband, and her high-school son on Feb 2, how much will she need to pay in total?

A 434 yuan.

B 532 yuan.

C 366 yuan.

D 464 yuan.

解析：选A。A 数字计算题。莉莉和她的丈夫是成年人，每人票价168元，合计336元。她的父母超过70岁，可以免费入场。她的高中儿子是学生，票价98元。因此，总费用为336元 + 98= 434元。故选A。

3.3.What does “combo deals” most likely mean in the article?

A Package discounts.

B Free tickets.

C Individual purchases.

D Limited tickets.

解析：选A。A 词义猜测题。根据倒数第二段中的“Special packages like ‘hotel + ticket’ and combo deals are available.”可知，“combo deals”应与“hotel + ticket”类似，是一种组合优惠，B项“套餐优惠”最符合。故选A。

4.4.What is the main purpose of the article?

A To discuss the history of the Zigong Lantern Festival.

B To introduce the 31st Zigong International Dinosaur Lantern Festival.

C To analyze the economic impact of the Zigong Lantern Festival.

D To explain the craftsmanship behind the lanterns.

解析：选B。B 主旨大意题。根据全文内容可知，文章主要介绍了第31届自贡国际恐龙灯会的开幕时间、亮点展品、票务信息以及主题区域等内容。故选B。