Why Chinese love to light up the lanterns in Mid-Autumn Festival?

Mid-Autumn Festival is a holiday of reunion. When a bright moon hangs high in th night sky, on the 15th day of the eighth lunar month each year, people across China and in some parts of Asia celebrate this important traditional festival. The Lanterns is a indispensable decoration and symbol in this festival. It not only illuminate the night but also carry people’s hope for better life. From traditional paper lanterns to modern electronic lanterns, lanterns play a vital role in Mid-Autumn Festival, adding joy and warmth to the festive atmosphere.

The symbol meaning of lanterns

There are three important symbolizing of lantern in Mid-Autumn Festival

Reunion and light: round shape lantern symbolizing family reunion, bright light symbolizing hope and happiness.
Pray for blessings to exorcise evil spirits: In ancient times, it was widely believed that light held the power to dispel darkness and misfortune, ushering in prosperity and good fortune.
Childishness and joy: Children playing games amidst the lanterns, which renders the festival more intriguing and vibrant.

The traditional and evolution of Mid-Autumn Festival lanterns

1.Traditional paper lantern

In the ancient time, lanterns were frequently crafted using bamboo strips and vibrant colored paper, beautifully embellished with motifs of the moon, rabbits, and blossoming flowers. The diverse array of lantern styles includes the charming rabbit lantern, the elegant lotus lantern, the whimsical fish lantern, and the majestic palace lantern, each showcasing exceptional artistry and exuding a profound oriental allure.

2.Modern creative lanterns

Today, lanterns are made from a wider variety of materials, including plastic, fabric, and LED lights, and even projection lanterns have emerged. Their designs are no longer limited to traditional styles, featuring trendy motifs like cartoon characters, stars, and moons. At the 2024 Singapore Mid-Autumn Festival Lantern Exhibition, FOREST PAINGTING LANTERN Factory showcased many highly creative specialty lanterns, such as giant panda lanterns, koi fish lanterns, and lotus lanterns.

3.Special lantern activities

Hong Kong Mid-Autumn Lantern Display: Victoria Park hosts a grand lantern exhibition every year, attracting countless visitors.

Taiwan’s Pingxi Sky Lanterns: People write their wishes on sky lanterns and release them into the night sky, creating a romantic and breathtaking spectacle.

Southern Lantern Parades: Children roam the streets in groups, carrying lanterns and filling the air with laughter and joy.

The role of lanterns during the Mid-Autumn Festival

1.Decorative environment

Many families and streets will hang lanterns, creating a strong festive atmosphere. Shopping malls and parks will also set up lantern exhibitions, becoming popular spots for taking photos and checking in.

2.parent-children interaction

Parents often make lanterns together with their children, which not only cultivates their hands-on ability but also enhances the parent-child relationship

3.cultural inheritance

The lantern-making technique is part of the intangible cultural heritage. Through the customs of the Mid-Autumn Festival, these traditional crafts have been passed down, allowing more and more people to understand lanterns and fall in love with lantern art.

Lanterns, those enchanting beacons of light, impart a certain brilliance and emotional depth to the Mid-Autumn Festival. These luminous creations transcend mere decorative function, serving as vessels for heartfelt emotions. From the unassuming charm of paper lanterns to the modern allure of electronic masterpieces, each lantern tells a unique story. Adorned with intricate patterns and auspicious messages, they not only brighten the night sky but also carry the hopes and dreams of people. As they gently sway in the breeze, their warm glow seems to spread joy and harmony throughout the community. The tradition of lantern making has been passed down for generations, each craftsperson infusing their own creativity and passion into every design. It’s not just about the visual beauty; lanterns symbolize the unity of family and the continuity of culture. In an age where technology dominates, the Mid-Autumn lanterns serve as a reminder of simpler times and the enduring human spirit. They are more than just objects; they are living, breathing testaments to the richness of our heritage.