The Lantern Festival, celebrated on February 12th this year, is a vibrant day filled with rich traditions and customs. Missteps on this day are believed to influence one’s luck for the entire year, so embracing the traditions and avoiding the taboos associated with this festive occasion is essential.
The significance of the Lantern Festival
Also known as the Shangyuan Festival, the Lantern Festival marks the first full moon night after the Lunar New Year, symbolizing the arrival of spring. In Buddhism, lighting lanterns traditionally honor the Buddha on the 15th day of the first lunar month. Taoism regards this day as the birthday of the Heavenly Official, also known as the “Lord of the Three Realms,” a deity second only to the Jade Emperor. As such, many customs and taboos are observed on this day to ensure good fortune and harmony.
Watch the following video of the 2025 Lantern Festival in Taichung, Taiwan:
Five traditions of the Lantern Festival
Lighting lanterns
Lighting and hanging lanterns is a cherished tradition during the Lantern Festival. Bright lights are believed to ward off evil spirits and bring blessings, symbolizing hope for a bright future. Lanterns of various shapes and sizes illuminate the night, creating a mesmerizing and festive atmosphere. Communities often organize lantern displays and parades, showcasing intricate designs and themes that captivate audiences.
Riddle guessing
Riddle guessing is a must-do activity during the Lantern Festival. On this night, people hang various lanterns with riddles on them. This fun activity symbolizes the opening of one’s mind and wisdom. Participants challenge themselves to solve these riddles, fostering community and intellectual engagement. It’s a delightful way to bond with family and friends while celebrating the festival.
Eating tangyuan
Eating tangyuan, sweet glutinous rice balls, is a tradition that symbolizes “reunion and completeness.” Tangyuan sounds similar to “tuanyuan,” meaning reunion, representing family harmony and happiness. These delicious treats come in various flavors, including sesame, peanut, and red bean, offering a sweet indulgence that brings families together. Sharing tangyuan is a heartfelt gesture that strengthens familial bonds and expresses love and unity.
Bridge walking
In some regions, there’s a tradition of “walking the bridge” during the Lantern Festival. Known as “bridge stepping” or “walking away a hundred illnesses.” This custom is believed to promote health and ward off diseases. Historically, the Lantern Festival was a rare occasion for women to go out and enjoy themselves. Women would dress up, leave their homes, and participate in activities like bridge walking, climbing city walls, and touching nails to pray for children, returning home only after nightfall. This tradition reflects the festival’s role in promoting social interaction and well-being.
Releasing sky lanterns
In Pingxi, New Taipei City, Taiwan, releasing sky lanterns is a popular tradition. People write their New Year wishes on paper lanterns, light them, and let them float into the sky, hoping for success and happiness in the new year. Thousands of sky lanterns drifting in the night sky create a breathtaking scene, symbolizing the release of worries and embracing new opportunities. This tradition encourages people to dream big and aspire for a brighter future.
Three taboos of the Lantern Festival
Avoid quarreling and children crying
The Lantern Festival marks the birthday of the Heavenly Official, making it a festive occasion. Avoiding arguments with family or partners and preventing children from crying or being scolded is best. Maintaining a harmonious and joyful atmosphere attracts positive energy and blessings, ensuring a prosperous year ahead.
Avoid haircuts
Cutting hair on the Lantern Festival is discouraged because “hair” (髮) sounds like “prosper” (發) in Chinese. Cutting hair is considered an ominous sign of prosperity and wealth, potentially affecting one’s fortune for the year. To safeguard one’s luck, scheduling haircuts before or after the festival is advisable.
Avoid moving
House moving on the Lantern Festival is not recommended, as the noise and movement might drive away good fortune and luck. It’s believed that the disruption caused by moving can disturb the auspicious energies of the day, leading to unfavorable outcomes. It’s best to postpone relocation plans until after the festival to preserve the positive vibes.
Embracing the Lantern Festival
The Lantern Festival is a time to embrace cultural traditions, enjoy the company of loved ones, and reflect on the values of harmony and prosperity. By participating in the festival’s customs and being mindful of its taboos, individuals can ensure a year filled with good fortune and happiness. Whether lighting lanterns, solving riddles, or savoring tangyuan, the Lantern Festival offers a meaningful and joyous celebration that resonates with people of all ages.
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