Happy Lantern Festival!

Every year on the 15th day of February, the Chinese Lantern Festival takes place. On this day, the return of spring and reunion of family is being celebrated. This day is full of fun and colorful activities, making it one of the most popular Chinese festivals.

What do people eat?

During Chinese lantern festival people eat Yuan Xiao, or tangyuan. This is a dumpling ball made out of sticky rice flour with filling. There are several delicious fillings to try, like sesame, walnuts or rose petals. Follow the instructions on the image below to make your own delicious Yuan Xiao.

(Tip: download the image and share it with your customers!)

What do people do?

Lanterns

During this festival, beautiful red lanterns are displayed wherever you can look. These lanterns have amazing traditional images on them with symbols such as flowers, animals and people. Lighting them is a way for people to pray for their futures and families.

Guessing Riddles

Many people write riddles on their lanterns, and ask others to solve them. The one that solves this riddle, usually wins a small price. Examples of riddles are:  What’s full of holes but still holds water? (Answer: a sponge), or What building has the most stories? (Answer: A Library)

Lion Dances

The traditional lion dances of China are a well-known image all around the world. Two dancers dress up in a colorful lion costume, one as the back of the lion and one as the front. These performances are entertaining and comical, making it a very popular event. They are meant to bring good fortune and chase away evil spirits.

Happy Lantarn Festival!