The Lantern Festival is one of the most important festivals in China, celebrated on the 15th day of the first lunar month. It marks the end of the Chinese New Year celebrations and is a time for family gatherings and joyous celebrations.
One of the most popular activities is the lanterns display. People often make lanterns out of colorful paper or silk, and they come in different shapes and sizes, from the simple round ones to the more complicated ones in the shapes of animals or mythical creatures. At night, the lanterns are lit up, creating a glorious sight that is both beautiful and festive.
Another activity is solving riddles. Riddles written on lanterns are hung up for people to solve. Solving a riddle is not only a fun activity but also a way to increase one's knowledge and intelligence. It is also a way of passing on the Chinese culture and traditions to the younger generation.
Eating tangyuan is also a popular activity during the Lantern Festival. Tangyuan is a sweet glutinous rice ball filled with sesame paste, peanuts, or red bean paste. Eating tangyuan symbolizes the reunion of the family and is seen as a way of wishing for a happy and harmonious family.
Watching the lion and dragon dance is another must-see activity during the Lantern Festival. It is a traditional Chinese dance performed by a group of dancers dressed in lion or dragon costumes, accompanied by drums and cymbals. The dance is believed to bring good luck and fortune.
In conclusion, the Lantern Festival is a time of joy and celebrations. Chinese people celebrate this festival with great enthusiasm and pride, and they are more than happy to share their traditions with their foreign friends. The lanterns display, riddle-solving, eating tangyuan, and watching the lion and dragon dance are just some of the ways Chinese people celebrate this Festival. So, if you happen to be in China during this time, don't miss out on the Lantern Festival festivities!
