Travel Tour China

Friday, April 27, 2007

Observe the Artistry of the Lantern Festival in China

We all know that the Chinese are fond of partying about everything, from plant to food festivals, which are all unusual to people, especially Westerners. In fact, among festivities that you haven't probably heard about is the incomparable Lantern Festival. This festival is paid tribute by the Chinese, whether commoners or aristocrats, by hanging lanterns on their front gates as a tribute to Buddha.

Originated from the aristocratic Han Dynasty, this well-known Lantern Festival is celebrated every 15th day on the first lunar month, usually on February; King Wen officially designated this date, but it was only during King Wu's reign when the Chinese started the classic festival. This event especially focused on the promotion of Buddhism in the country, so King Ming ordered the people to light lanterns in monasteries, palaces, and in typical houses as tributes.

Also well-known as the Yuanxiao Festival, the celebration soon became an important part of Chinese culture; people really indulge in all-out festival activities. Every year, the festival also shares the creativity of the Chinese, especially when it comes to making and lighting lanterns. The Lantern Festival even made well-known a delicacy, rice dumplings with sweet stuffing, which is created only during this time.

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