What time does Lantern Festival start?

The Lantern Festival, also known as Yuanxiao Festival, is a traditional Chinese festival that marks the end of the Chinese New Year celebrations. It is celebrated on the 15th day of the first month in the lunisolar Chinese calendar, which is always between February 4 and March 6. In 2024, the Lantern Festival will fall on February 24.

The Lantern Festival is a night-time event, and the exact start time can vary depending on local customs and practices. However, the festivities typically begin at dusk when the sky starts to darken, and the lanterns can be lit and displayed. The lanterns are often adorned with riddles, and people gather to admire the lanterns, solve the riddles, and participate in various activities such as dragon and lion dances, parades, and fireworks.

It’s important to note that the Lantern Festival is not just a one-day event. The preparations and celebrations can start days or even weeks in advance. Many people spend time making their own lanterns, and communities may organize events leading up to the festival.

In conclusion, while the Lantern Festival officially starts on the 15th day of the first lunar month, the exact start time of the festivities can vary. It’s a time of joy and celebration, bringing families and communities together to mark the end of the Chinese New Year period.