Cultural Celebrations

As the Lunar New Year reaches its close this weekend, some families will be preparing for one last celebration: The Lantern Festival!

What is the Lantern Festival?

Lanterns are the most notable part of the festival. Which you can probably tell by the name! In some countries and cultures, the Lantern Festival occurs fifteen days following the  Lunar New Year. 

In China, the celebration is deeply rooted in tradition, presumably dating back to the ancient Eastern Han Dynasty (250-220), nearly 2,000 years ago! The Lantern Festival was/is also called Shang Yuan. 

As the years progressed, and different political dynasties took and lost influence, many other traditions were added. In modern times, different cities and areas can even have different traditions!

What happens during the Lantern Festival?

One of the core traditions of the Lantern Festival in China and Taiwan is the display and appreciation of colourful lanterns as well as other activities such as fireworks displays, parades, and traditional dance and music performances. Red lanterns in particular mean and express a hope for good luck. 

Many people also participate in cultural activities such as solving riddles written on lanterns or eating sweet dumplings, called yuanxiao.

For further information, see the following websites: https://www.daysoftheyear.com/days/lantern-festival/

and https://chinesenewyear.net/lantern-festival/ 

Are there other Lantern festivals?

Yes! A number of cultures and countries have Lantern Festivals, or festivals of light, of their own, for many different reasons, at many different times of the year!

Seoul Lantern Festival, South Korea

The Seoul Lantern Festival is held every year from the first Friday of November to the third weekend of the month for approximately 3 weeks. 

Are there other Full Moon/New Year Festivals?

Yes! A number of cultures and countries have special celebrations on specific Full Moon days in a lunar year, for many different reasons! 

Continue to read our Newsletter to learn about more as the year progresses!