As I get closer to the river bank, it's already getting dark. But the whole street is filled with festive atmosphere. People just sit on the ground, with hawkers selling all kinds of goods, from traditional food to clothes, accessories like hats, toys and other daily necessities.
It's a struggle to get through the crowds, but I managed to find my hostel and unpack. After that, I decided to have my dinner and wander along the riverside. There was a "formal" market with stalls nearby (as opposed to the food cart on road side and blanket on the ground), it felt like the flower market during Chinese New Year, scent of happiness is in the air, everyone has a smiley face.
The practising paddleboats had already left, wish them a good night sleep and all the best in the coming races. On the other hand, decorated boats have started their floating parade in the middle of the river, playing traditional music. While people on both sides of the river watch happily with their families and friends, eating traditional food and shopping among hawkers.
"Bang!" It took me more than a second to realize that it's the firework! It's definitely the highlight of the night. The spot where the firework is shot is more a mile from where I am, so the flash came first, then the bang came after a few seconds. It's a weird experience and given the extensive low-rise building across the riverside, the booming sound spread wide and echoed. With the race about to start on the next day, I believe everyone is getting excited.