Lihu Lake is to be lit up this National Day holiday on Oct 1, as the 2016 Lihu International Light Festival shines into life.

It is the second time for this festival to be held, which runs until Oct 7, and this year the organizers have got their hands on some world-leading optical technology.

Lihu's Ferris wheel is decorated with light effects at night beside Lihu Lake. [Photo/provided to chinadaily.com.cn]

The festival, this year themed with the concept of "Through the Light" will take place at Central Park which sits beside Lihu Lake. The theme emphasizes much of the technology and experiences which will be on show, such as virtual reality (VR), vivid sound effects, and simulations.

A seven-meter-tall robotic elephant will be installed at the park, able to carry 15 people at a time along a corridor of light and optics. Visitors will also be able to ride bicycles which produce light via kinetic energy.

A 3-D multimedia show entitled Sleeping Elf of Aladdin and the Magic Lamp will also take place, set in a mysterious medieval world utilizing holographic and VR technology. The show has previously been featured and well received in Shanghai and Shenzhen.

Various artists will also take part in the festival, bringing a unique style and look, and creating works which express the ideas and thoughts of young people.

An ornate building is covered with LED light at night during last year's Lihu International Light Festival. [Photo/provided to chinadaily.com.cn]

The light festival will be open from 3:00 pm to 9:30 pm every day and will run from Oct 1 to Oct 7. Tickets cost 120 yuan ($18).