Happy ‘Yuan Xiao Jie’
Today is Yuan Xiao Jie. This festival, which falls on the 15th day of the first lunar month (March the 3rd) this year, marks the first full moon of the year and the end of the Chinese New Year. In China, it is also known as the Lantern Festival, and Chinese Valentine’s Day. The festival dates back over 2,000 years to the Han Dynasty.
I don’t know what it is like in China now, but according to history, in the olden days, young people took to the streets, enjoying the colourful and beautifully designed lanterns on display, and hoped for a chance to meet their potential partner. Games like solving riddles, and vibrant dragon dances add to the vibrant atmosphere of the occasion.
People eat ‘tangyuan’ (sweet rice balls), with various fillings, symbolizing family reunion and happiness.
Outside of China, the festival is not as popularly celebrated. In Singapore, grassroot leaders in each housing estate might organise an event to mark the end of the Chinese New Year. Families might gather for a meal in the evening, but the meal is not as elaborate, or as important as the reunion dinner.
You can click on the picture for a better view.
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