By: Tauhid Shah
Lantern Festival Date: The Lantern Festival, celebrated on 24 February 2024, marks the end of the Chinese New Year.
Family Tradition: Families and friends gather to light lanterns, solve riddles, and enjoy delicious food during this significant Chinese holiday.
Forgiveness and Peace: Lantern Festival symbolizes forgiveness, peace, and reconciliation, bringing unity and harmony to Chinese communities.
Historical Roots: Originating over 2,000 years ago during the Han dynasty, the festival's traditions have endured, spreading joy across generations.
Emperor's Decree: Emperor Wu declared the Lantern Festival a major celebration in 104 BC, emphasizing unity and togetherness.
Symbolic Lanterns: Red lanterns, representing good luck, warmth, and happiness, are decorated with calligraphy and paintings.
Lantern Variety: Different lantern types, including hanging, flying, and floating lanterns, add diversity to the festival celebrations.
Riddle Tradition: Lantern riddles, challenging children to solve them, are a fun and lucky activity during the festival.
Noteworthy Festivals: Explore other lantern celebrations like the Harbin Ice and Snow Sculpture Festival and the Zigong Lantern Museum.
Cultural Significance: Lantern Festival is a time for environmental awareness, promoting peace, inclusion, and the start of a new year with hope.