The Lantern Festival , also known as Shang Yuan Festival, marks the last day of the Chinese New Year celebrations, (Sunday 18th February - Sunday 4th March in 2007) and, like St Valentine's Day in the West, it is a day for lovers. :couple:
In the past, it was the only day of the year when a woman could come out - chaperoned, of course! - and be seen by eligible single men. In the days when women's feet were bound, it was often the one time when she could appear in public with unbound feet. Of course, these restrictions no longer exist, but there is still a hint of romance in the air at the Lantern Festival celebrations. :heart:
Many theories surround the festival's origins. Possibly it was originally meant to honor Buddha. Perhaps its creation comes from the story of a homesick palace maid named Yuanxiao who told the Emperor that the God of Fire would set fire to the city unless he was appeased with a scene of burning. Accordingly, the Emperor ordered firecrackers to be set off and bright red lanterns hung in the streets. The ensuing noise and confusion allowed Yuanxiao to slip home unnoticed for a brief family reunion.
The decorative lanterns are patterned with images of historical figures, birds, animals or temple themes. :candle:
The traditional food is also named after the maid. Yuanxiao dumplings can be sweet or savoury, they are made from sticky rice flour, and can be filled with anything from fish or meat and vegetables to sugar, dried peel, sesame paste and nuts.
The celebrations include traditional games, including music, dancing, acrobats, and of course, there are brightly decorated lanterns everywhere. People play the Lantern Riddle game, trying to guess the answers to the mysterious riddles stuck on the lanterns.
