AS the Chinese Spring Festival approaches, foreigners living in Shenzhen are also enjoying the holiday atmosphere by shopping for festival goods just like the natives.

In an artwork exhibition center on Meiyuan Road, many foreigners were carefully choosing traditional Chinese festival products such as red Chinese knots, lanterns and paper-cuts featuring New Year celebration symbols.

"I like Chinese culture and would like to celebrate China's most important festival as the Chinese do," said Linda Yulzari of France, who was buying Chinese paintings to decorate her home.

Saleswomen at a lantern shop and nearby teapot shop in the center said there have been a growing number of foreign customers recently as the Spring Festival draws near.

Apart from New Year decorations, they are also buying traditional Chinese products like ceramic vases and boccaro teapots.

The Luohu Commercial City near the Shenzhen Railway Station sells traditional Chinese clothing and other Shenzhen-made products.

Many foreigners are buying bags, watches and glasses at bargain prices. Shoppers say the period around the Spring Festival is a good time for shopping since big discounts are usually given.

"We are purchasing New Year's gifts for our Chinese friends in the same way we would give Christmas presents in our custom," said a foreign couple selecting handbags.

In Shekou's Jingshan Villas, the city's major foreigner community, the management office will also organize foreign tenants to buy flowers at one of the main flower markets this Thursday, said Song, a customer service staff member of the villas.

Editor: Wing