Lantern Festival - 元宵节 (yuán xiāo jié)
The 15th day of the 1st lunar month is the Chinese Lantern Festival because the first lunar month is called ‘Yuán元’ month and in the ancient times people called night ‘Xiāo宵’. The 15th day is the first night to see a full moon. So the day is also called ‘Yuan Xiao Festival’ in China.
According to the Chinese tradition, at the very beginning of a new year, when there is a bright full moon hanging in the sky, there should be thousands of colorful lanterns hung out for people to appreciate. At this time, people will try to solve the puzzles on the lanterns and eat ‘yuán xiāo 元宵’ (glutinous rice ball) and get all their families united in the joyful atmosphere.
In Dalian there will be some events:
1. Lantern Show
Place: Labor Park
Time: February 5th – February 6th
Price: around 20 RMB
For more information (in Chinese) visit: http://dalian.runsky.com/2012-02/03/content_4150065.htm
2. Firework show
Place: Xinghai Square
Time: February 6th 7:15 pm
Price: Free
E&OE
