Lantern Festival
(元宵节 Yuan-xiao-jie)
学习地球语 Learn Globe Language: Lantern Festival (元宵节 Yuan-xiao-jie)
The Lantern Festival, known as 元宵节 (Yuan-xiao-jie) or 灯笼节 (Deng-long-jie) in Globe Language, marks the final day of the Chinese New Year celebrations. The name 灯笼节 (Deng-long-jie) comes from 灯笼 (Deng-long) = lanternand 节 (Jie) = festival.
What is Yuan-xiao-jie?
Yuan-xiao-jie falls on the 15th day of the first Chinese lunar month.
Making it the first full moon of the year in the Chinese Lunar Calendar. This festival has been celebrated since the Qin Dynasty and officially became a festival during the Western Han Dynasty.
How is it Celebrated?
During Yuan-xiao-jie, people enjoy:
- Lantern displays – streets glow with colorful paper lanterns.
- Folk art performances – including dragon and lion dances.
- Eating special rice balls – known as 元宵 (Yuan-xiao) in northern China and 汤圆 (Tang-yuan) in southern China.
The Meaning of Tang-yuan & Yuan-xiao
These glutinous rice balls are filled with sweet or savory ingredients, symbolizing family reunion, harmony, and happiness.
Yuan-xiao-jie is not just about beautiful lanterns—it’s a festival of light, joy, and togetherness!
Conclusion
The Lantern Festival brings families together. Enjoying glowing lights, joyful performances, and sweet rice balls. It marks a bright and hopeful start to the new year.