Chinese Lantern Festival

The Lantern Festival falls on the 15th day of the first lunar month, usually in February or March within the New Style calendar. Since the Western Han dynasty (206 BC-AD 25), it had become a festival with great significance. 

This day's important activity is watching lanterns. Throughout the dynasty (206 BC-AD 220), Buddhism flourished in China. One emperor heard that Buddhist monks would watch sarira, or remains from the cremation of Buddha's body, and lights small lanterns to worship Buddha on the 15th day of the first Synodic month, so he ordered to light lanterns within the imperial palace and temples as a sign of respect to Buddha at the moment. Later, the Buddhist rite developed into a grand festival among people and its influence expanded from the Central Plains to the entire of China.

Till today, the lantern festival continues to be held annually around the country. Lanterns of assorted shapes and sizes are hung within the streets, attracting countless visitors. Children will hold self-made or bought lanterns to walk along the streets, extremely excited. Also, "Guessing lantern riddles" is a vital part of the Festival.

In this Lantern Festival, Dreamland company wishes you peace, joy, happiness, and everything all the best!