The Chinese Lantern Festival (Yuanxiao Jie, 元宵节) is a spectacular celebration that marks the final day of the Lunar New Year. Held on the 15th day of the first lunar month, it is a time for family gatherings, glowing lantern displays, and enjoying sweet treats. But beyond the beauty of the lanterns, the festival has a rich history rooted in ancient traditions and legends.
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- When is the Chinese Lantern Festival 2025/2026?
- A Night of Lights and Traditions
- Tangyuan: A Symbol of Family Togetherness
- Lion and Dragon Dances
- Fireworks and Firecrackers
- A Festival of Love?
- Legends Behind the Lantern Festival
- Where to Celebrate the Lantern Festival
When is the Chinese Lantern Festival 2025/2026?
The Lantern Festival falls on the 15th day of the first month in the Chinese lunar calendar, which is also the first full moon night of the lunar new year. This typically places the festival in late January or February.
The Lantern Festival 2025 falls on 12 February, 2025.
| Year | Date | Day |
|---|---|---|
| 2026 | Mar. 3 | Tuesday |
| 2025 | Feb. 12 | Wednesday |
| 2024 | Feb. 24 | Sunday |
| 2023 | Feb. 5 | Sunday |
| 2022 | Feb. 15 | Tuesday |
A Night of Lights and Traditions
The most iconic part of the Lantern Festival is, of course, the lanterns. People display colorful paper lanterns, some carrying riddles for onlookers to solve—a tradition dating back to the Han Dynasty (206 BC–220 AD). In some regions, people even release lanterns into the sky or float them on rivers, symbolizing letting go of the past and embracing new beginnings.
Tangyuan: A Symbol of Family Togetherness
No Lantern Festival is complete without tangyuan (汤圆), soft glutinous rice balls filled with sweet sesame, peanut, or red bean paste. Their round shape represents wholeness and family unity, making them a meaningful part of the celebrations—similar to Thanksgiving pumpkin pie in the U.S.!
Lion and Dragon Dances
Lively lion and dragon dances are performed in many places, bringing excitement to the celebrations. These performances are believed to ward off evil spirits and bring prosperity for the coming year.
Fireworks and Firecrackers
The festival often includes spectacular fireworks and firecrackers, creating an electrifying atmosphere. This tradition stems from the belief that loud noises scare away bad luck and evil spirits.
A Festival of Love?
Historically, the Lantern Festival was also known as Chinese Valentine’s Day because it was one of the few times young men and women in ancient China could meet potential romantic partners. While modern dating customs have changed, the festival remains a romantic occasion for many couples.
Legends Behind the Lantern Festival
Several legends explain the festival’s origins, each adding a layer of mystery and meaning to the celebrations:
1. The Jade Emperor and the Saved Village
One of the most famous legends tells of the Jade Emperor, the ruler of heaven, who planned to punish a village for killing his sacred crane. However, a kind-hearted fairy warned the villagers, advising them to light red lanterns, set off fireworks, and make noise to make it seem as if the village was already in flames. Fooled by the display, the Jade Emperor spared the village, and the tradition of lighting lanterns on this day was born.
2. The Loyal Maid Yuanxiao
Another legend speaks of a palace maid named Yuanxiao, who longed to reunite with her family. A clever minister tricked the emperor by claiming that the fire god demanded lanterns be lit throughout the city. The emperor followed the order, and Yuanxiao was able to sneak out and visit her family, giving the festival its name.
Where to Celebrate the Lantern Festival
If you want to experience the Lantern Festival at its best, here are some of the top places to visit:
- Pingxi Sky Lantern Festival (Taiwan) – Thousands of lanterns are released into the night sky, creating a magical sight.
- Qinhuai Lantern Fair (Nanjing, China) – One of China’s oldest and most famous lantern festivals, featuring intricate lantern art.
- Shanghai Yuyuan Lantern Festival – A dazzling display of lanterns in Shanghai’s historic Yuyuan Garden.
- Beijing Longqing Gorge Ice Lantern Festival – A unique blend of ice sculptures and traditional lantern displays.
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