Lanterns Leave the Poles: A Story of Tradition and Celebration

In China, the Lantern Festival marks the end of the Spring Festival and the start of a new working year. The festival falls on Lunar Jan 15th, and it is a time when people pack up and head back to work in the fields. Over time, the pace of life has accelerated, and people now start working as early as Lunar Jan 8th, which is an auspicious date in the Chinese calendar, symbolizing good fortune.

As an LED Public Street Lighting Business Developer, I have always been drawn to the red lanterns that adorn the light poles during festival season. Red is an auspicious color in Chinese culture, and we see it everywhere during significant festivals, along with the imperial color of yellow. Together, these colors create a magnificent sight, and the festive decorations never fail to capture my attention.

Festivals in China are not just about decorations, though. They are also a time for food and family. Glutinous Rice Balls, or Tangyuan in Chinese, are a typical food that is served on the Lantern Festival. Made from sticky rice flour with sweet fillings, these delicious treats are boiled in water and eaten as a symbol of family reunion.

In modern times, more and more Chinese people are moving to cities instead of staying in their ancestral villages. However, we still hold dear to our traditions and continue to celebrate our festivals with joy and happiness. Whether it's the Lantern Festival or any other significant occasion, we always find a way to come together as a community and enjoy the festivities.

As we pack up and head back to work, we can take comfort in the fact that our traditions and celebrations will always be a part of our lives. No matter how modern or fast-paced our world becomes, we will always find a way to honor our past and celebrate our future.