Do You Know The Lantern Festival in China?
Mar 03, 2026
The Lantern Festival, also known as the Shangyuan Festival or the Lantern Festival, falls on the 15th day of the first lunar month, marking the end of the Spring Festival celebrations. On this day, every household is decorated with lanterns, creating an atmosphere of reunion and joy.
Admiring lanterns is the core custom of the Lantern Festival. As night falls, all kinds of lanterns are hung in the streets and alleys, from traditional palace lanterns and revolving lanterns to modern creative light installations, creating a dazzling spectacle, as bright as day. People go out in groups to "celebrate the Lantern Festival," praying for light and hope.
Solving lantern riddles adds a touch of intellectual fun to the festival. Riddles are pasted on the lanterns, covering word puzzles, idioms, and historical allusions. Those who solve them often receive small gifts, both enlivening the atmosphere and stimulating thought.
Eating Yuanxiao (or Tangyuan) symbolizes family reunion. In the north, Yuanxiao are "rolled," while in the south, Tangyuan are "wrapped." Although the methods differ, both use glutinous rice as the skin and are filled with sesame, red bean paste, or fresh meat, symbolizing a sweet life and family harmony.
In addition, some regions still retain folk performances such as dragon and lion dances, stilt walking, and fireworks displays, creating a lively and vibrant atmosphere that showcases the vitality of traditional Chinese culture.
