From then on, lighting lanterns and launching them into the sky became a common practice. These were peaceful and prosperous times, and the Chinese sent lanterns to the skies to celebrate all the blessings they had received. It gained further popularity during the Tang dynasty (618 to 907 AD), when citizens released lanterns into the sky to celebrate the country’s strength during this period. Over the centuries, this small practice grew to become a big celebration throughout China. As part of the ritual, believers would carry the lanterns to the palace in Luoyang.Ĭhinese lanterns date all the way back to the Eastern Han dynasty, and maybe even before. One very devout emperor requested his subjects to follow this practice and people started lighting lanterns to honor the Buddha. They adopted lanterns as part of their rituals of worship on the twelfth day of the first month of the lunar calendar. These silk or paper covers would be decorated with different traditional Chinese characters, sometimes even advertising nearby businesses.Īs these lanterns caught on in Chinese culture at the time, monks adopted them to celebrate the Buddha. The people of that time created frames for candles using bamboo, wood or wheat-straw, stretching silk or paper over it to allow for a hot air balloon effect. What is the history of Chinese lanterns? Han dynasty rootsĬhinese lanterns have a long history and there are even records of the existence of paper Chinese lanterns dating back to as early as the Eastern Han dynasty (25 to 220 AD). How are Chinese lanterns used during festivals?.What are the three main types of Chinese lanterns?.

What is the history of Chinese lanterns?.8025 Galleria Dr., Tysonsįor more holiday events around NoVA, subscribe to our Things to Do newsletter. There’s plenty to do for guests of all ages, so don’t miss what’s sure to become a family tradition. Kids will also enjoy the interactive light swings, seesaws, and tunnels. In addition, see handmade lanterns encompassing a world of ice, including displays of mammoths, polar bears, and penguins. Bring your whole family and stroll through a magical wonderland of light that includes Chinese myths, legends, and zodiacs. Photo courtesy DC Winter Lantern Festivalįor two months, Lerner Town Square will transform into a dazzling world of light. Now Northern Virginia hosts the distinctive display, offering an unforgettable, family-friendly activity. Held in New York the last three years, the “Insta-worthy” festival attracts 150,000 guests annually. Tickets for the event are $19.99 for children ages 3-12 and $31.99 for those 13 and older. throughout its nearly two-month run in Tysons. The festival is open Friday through Sunday (and daily from December 23 to January 1) from 5-10 p.m. Photo courtesy DC Winter Lantern Festival Experience the glorious glow of the colorful lanterns and bright displays that will light the night and bring warmth this holiday season. The first of its kind in the DMV, the Winter Lantern Festival creates a dazzling world of light with over 1,000 Chinese lanterns - all handmade by highly skilled artisans. Let there be light! Bundle up the kids and head over to the DC Winter Lantern Festival, coming to Lerner Town Square in Tysons II from December 16 to February 12.

Chinese lantern lights festival