Lantern Festival: Celebrating Tradition with Lights and Reunions

The Lantern Festival, also known as the Yuanxiao Festival, is one of China’s traditional holidays, celebrated on the 15th day of the first lunar month, marking the end of the Spring Festival celebrations. The core activities of this festival include admiring lanterns, solving lantern riddles, eating yuanxiao (sweet rice dumplings), and watching dragon and lion dances.

Solving Lantern Riddles

Eating Rice Dumplings

Admiring Lanterns

The origins of the Lantern Festival can be traced back to the Han Dynasty. After thousands of years of development, it has become a joyful and family-oriented celebration. Families gather together to eat yuanxiao, symbolizing unity and happiness. The colorful lanterns and creative riddles add extra fun and charm to the festivities.

The Lantern Festival is not only a continuation of the New Year celebrations but also one of the most representative holidays in Chinese culture, showcasing traditional family values and best wishes for the future.