Tazishan Park was once considered little more than a nursery for the city. Since it was opened as a park in 1985, it has become a key player in the preservation of tree species local to Chengdu and Sichuan. It is one of the largest parks in the city, occupying an area in excess of 160 hectares (400 acres), in which visitors can find picnic areas, a fishing wharf and a large lake. During Chinese New Year, the park hosts a variety of celebrations including the traditional Lantern Festival, and a exhibitions of local painting.