The Lantern Festival, known as Yuanxiao Festival in Chinese, falls on the 15th day of the first lunar month. This year, it is celebrated on March 3, 2026 . It marks the first full moon night of the new year and signifies the grand finale of the Chinese New Year celebrations .

With a history spanning over 2,000 years, the festival’s origins can be traced back to the Han Dynasty (206 BCE – 220 CE). It is believed to have started with Buddhist customs of lighting lanterns to honor the Buddha on the 15th day of the lunar month. Emperor Ming of Han, an advocate of Buddhism, officially adopted the practice, ordering lanterns to be lit in palaces and temples, a tradition that gradually spread to the common people . The name “Yuanxiao” itself comes from “Yuan” meaning first month and “Xiao” meaning night, as the festival celebrates the year’s first night of the full moon .

Celebrating the Lantern Festival

Historically, the festival was a time of joyous celebration, allowing people to break free from daily routines. In ancient times, even curfews were temporarily lifted so everyone could enjoy the lantern displays . Tang Dynasty poets vividly described the grand scenes with verses like, “Hundreds of flowers light up the night, stars descend like rain” .

Traditional customs are rich and varied. Eating Yuanxiao or Tangyuan (sweet glutinous rice balls) is essential, symbolizing family unity and happiness . The main event, watching lanterns, transforms cities into seas of light. Guessing lantern riddles is a popular intellectual game, where riddles are written on lanterns for passersby to solve . Festive performances like dragon dances, lion dances, and walking on stilts fill the streets with energy and excitement .

Eating Tangyuan with family.

This year’s celebration holds a special celestial treat. On the night of March 3, 2026, the Lantern Festival will coincide with a total lunar eclipse, an event not to be seen again on this day for another 46 years . As the full moon passes through Earth’s shadow, it may take on a beautiful reddish hue, creating an unforgettable “red moon” spectacle in the night sky .

We wish you all a joyful Lantern Festival filled with light and happiness!

Happy Lantern Festival and Peace to the World! 🌕🏮🕊️