The Lantern Festival, also known as Yuanxiao Festival, is a traditional Chinese festival celebrated on the fifteenth day of the first month in the lunar calendar. It marks the end of the Chinese New Year celebrations.
Lanterns are symbolic of letting go of the past and welcoming the new year with fresh hopes and aspirations. They also represent reunion, as families and friends come together to celebrate. The festival has ancient origins dating back over 2,000 years to the Han Dynasty. It was initially a ceremonial event for emperors to worship the heavens and pray for a good harvest.
Elaborate lantern displays are a hallmark of the Lantern Festival. These can range from traditional red lanterns to intricate designs depicting mythological creatures, historical scenes, and modern motifs. Eating yuanxiao, or sweet rice dumplings, is a popular tradition during the Lantern Festival. These dumplings are round and symbolize the full moon and family unity. Colorful dragon and lion dances are performed during the Lantern Festival, accompanied by drums, cymbals, and firecrackers. These performances are believed to bring good luck and ward off evil spirits.
Another traditional food eaten during the Lantern Festival is tangyuan, which are glutinous rice balls served in sweet soup. They symbolize family reunion and harmony. Writing and solving lantern riddles is a traditional activity during the festival. Riddles are written on strips of paper and attached to lanterns. Solving the riddles adds an interactive element to the celebrations.