The Lantern Festival (Yuanxiao Festival)

The Lantern Festival, also known as the Shangyuan Festival, falls on the 15th day of the first lunar month, marking the final day of traditional Chinese New Year celebrations. It coincides with the first full moon of the lunar year, symbolizing family reunion, wholeness, and new beginnings. In 2026, it is observed on March 3.

With a history of over 2,000 years, the festival emerged as a significant observance as early as the Western Han Dynasty (206 BCE–25 CE). It evolved into a national carnival in the Tang Dynasty, when curfews were lifted for nighttime celebrations, and lantern riddles became a beloved tradition in the Song Dynasty.

Core customs include admiring ornate lanterns of various shapes, solving riddles posted on lanterns, and enjoying folk performances like dragon and lion dances, stilt-walking, and fireworks. The iconic food is yuanxiao or tangyuan-glutinous rice balls, either sweet or savory-whose round shape embodies the wish for unity and happiness.