Culture

Lantern Festival

Date: 15th of the first lunar month
Place: Nationwide
Activities: Lantern expositions, garden parties, fireworks displays, and folk dances

Lantern Festival is the last day of Spring Festival, and thus marks the end of the festival. During this festival, red lanterns can be seen everywhere and fireworks displays shining in the sky. It is at this moment that the most types of delicate and splendidly lanterns are exhibited. The Chinese make merry to say good-dye to the festival with much reluctance. 

Appreciating lanterns and riddle-guessing are two important activities. Temple fairs are hold to celebrate it. Those living the countries may go to the city center in groups to feel the festive atmosphere. For little girls, they will get lanterns on the lantern festival or several days before the right day. In the evening, they get their lanterns alight and lift them in the streets. What about boys? Aha, they are itching to let off their fireworks. 

Every family eats Yuanxiao (a kind of rice ball stuffed with beans, sugar, and other sweets), which is a symbol of family reunion, unity, affection, and happiness.