Lantern Festival (Speaking: 870L; CEFR A2)

Many countries have special holidays, such as New Year’s Day. In China, Chinese New Year is the most important holiday of the year. During Chinese New Year, which is usually in January or February, people celebrate the Lantern Festival. At this time, children go out at night carrying lanterns. The lanterns are usually red because this is a lucky color for Chinese people. The lanterns can be different shapes, and they are often in the shape of animals. Lanterns in the shape of fish are very popular because Chinese people believe that fish are lucky. The word “fish” in Chinese sounds like the word “rich,” so people believe if you have fish, you might become rich!

In past times, each lantern had a small candle inside it. Children walked around the streets together in groups holding their lanterns. But if a candle fell over inside a lantern, the flame could start to burn the paper lantern. This was a bit dangerous. Luckily, children don’t have to worry about this anymore because most lanterns now use a light bulb instead of a candle.

During the Lantern Festival, Chinese people eat rice balls. They eat these in small, round bowls. They believe that eating the round rice balls in round bowls brings the family together. It may also bring the family happiness and luck in the new year. The lanterns all look so beautiful, and the rice balls are delicious.