Yuanxiao Lantern Festival

Back in the X century. in China, the custom of lighting colorful lanterns on this night spread.The lantern festival is celebrated on the 15th of the first month according to the lunar calendar. Back in the X century. in China, the custom of lighting colorful lanterns on this night spread.

Usually in the city center hung many lanterns of a variety of shapes and sizes, similar to various animals, flowers and fruits.

Fireworks, stilt processions, dragon dances, yange dances, swing rides and other events were organized in the villages. The festival of lanterns ended the New Year.

Since the XI century, the holiday has become widespread in China. On this day, they eat “yuansiao”, which is cooked from glutinous rice with sweet filling and cereal. They have the shape of a ball and symbolize the happiness of a friendly family. On this holiday, it is customary to solve riddles written on lanterns.

Lantern Festival is the Chinese Valentine’s Day. According to an ancient custom, the souls of deceased ancestors descend to earth in the new year to celebrate the holiday with their loved ones. And on the lantern festival, they come back. Millions of flashlights light their way home.