What is the Lantern Festival? Plus 6 ways to celebrate it in Hong Kong in 2026
Marking the last day of Chinese New Year celebrations, the Lantern Festival has roots that stretch back more than 2,000 years
The Lantern Festival falls on the 15th day of the first month in the lunisolar calendar, which is on March 3 this year, and marks the last day of the Chinese New Year celebrations. It is the first night of the new year to see a full moon, thus symbolising the return of spring and family unity.
The festival’s roots stretch back more than 2,000 years to the Han dynasty (206BC-AD220), though there are various versions of its exact origins.
The most famous folktale tells of the Jade Emperor, the ruler of Heaven, becoming enraged after his favourite crane was accidentally killed by villagers. Seeking revenge, the deity supreme planned to destroy the village with fire on the 15th day.