Sanya's night economy booms during holiday

The Dong'an Night Market proves popular during the May Day holiday. [Photo/Sanya Daily]

Sanya's night markets became the heart of the city's May Day celebrations, drawing crowds with sizzling street food, lively entertainment, and a vibrant after-dark economy.

The newly opened Dong'an Night Market in Jiyang district saw over 15,000 daily visitors, offering everything from Hainan coconut chicken to Sichuan hotpot. "It's perfect for families - kids play while adults eat and shop," said a tourist from Hangzhou.

At the Mijie Food Street in Sanya Bay, a 100-meter stretch packed with 40 vendors served up regional specialties like lingui rice noodles and Donglaishun hotpot. "I've visited four times - this place never disappoints," said a loyal customer from Jilin.

From the nostalgic First Agricultural Market, brimming with fresh seafood, to the romantic Ferris wheel at Haichang Fantasy Town, the city's diverse nightlife catered to all tastes.

Official data shows Sanya's overnight tourists spent 34 billion yuan ($4.7 billion) in the first quarter, up 6.3 percent year-on-year, proving that when the sun sets, the real feast begins.