Shanghai delivered a high-tech welcome on the evening of Feb. 25 as 2,000 drones lit up the sky to greet the visiting cruise ship Westerdam.

The synchronized light show unfolded over the Huangpu River, creating animated patterns and celebratory messages for nearly 2,000 passengers onboard. According to organizers, the display also sent Chinese Year of the Horse wishes to cruise travelers.

The show was part of a special reception as Westerdam, operated by Holland America Line, made one of its scheduled visits to Shanghai. Drone light shows have become a popular way for cities in China to mark major events, offering a visually engaging alternative to traditional fireworks.

Westerdam is currently on a 28-day round-trip cruise that began on February 15 in Yokohama, Japan, and is scheduled to finish on March 15 back in Yokohama. This itinerary takes passengers to a mix of ports across East and Southeast Asia.