The Origin and Legends of Lantern Festival

The Lantern Festival, also known as the Yuanxiao Festival, is a traditional Chinese holiday celebrated on the 15th day of the first lunar month. It is one of the most important festivals in China and other East Asian countries. The festival marks the end of the New Year celebrations and is also considered a time for families to gather and enjoy various activities.
**Origin**
The exact origin of the Lantern Festival is unclear, but it is believed to have been rooted in various ancient customs. One of the most widely accepted theories is that the festival has its origins in the Han Dynasty (206 BC – 220 AD). The festival was initially called the "Day of Pure Brightness" and was celebrated by lighting lanterns to symbolize the welcoming of spring and to ward off evil spirits.
Another theory suggests that the festival started during the Tang Dynasty (618 – 907 AD), when Emperor Xuanzong ordered the lighting of lanterns in the capital city of Chang'an as a way to honor the goddess of lanterns, Chang'e.
**Legends**
There are several legends associated with the Lantern Festival. The most famous one revolves around the moon goddess, Chang'e.
**The Legend of Chang'e**
In ancient Chinese mythology, Chang'e was a beautiful moon goddess who lived on the moon. Her husband, Hou Yi, was a skilled archer who once shot nine suns that were causing immense heat and drought on Earth. As a reward for his bravery, the gods gave him an elixir of immortality. Hou Yi decided to share the elixir with his three immortal disciples. However, his wife, Chang'e, secretly swallowed the entire potion. Fearing the consequences of immortality, Chang'e fled to the moon, leaving Hou Yi heartbroken on Earth.
Each year on the 15th day of the lunar month, Chang'e lights lanterns in the moon to remind Hou Yi of her love. To honor their love story, people on Earth light lanterns during the Lantern Festival, hoping that their wishes will reach the moon and be granted by the goddess.
**Traditional Activities**
The Lantern Festival is celebrated with various traditional activities. The most iconic of these is the lighting of lanterns, which are often crafted in intricate designs. People also enjoy lantern riddles, guessing the riddles inscribed on lanterns. Another popular activity is dragon and lion dances, which symbolize good fortune and happiness.
The Yuanxiao Festival, with its rich history and cultural significance, continues to be a cherished celebration in many East Asian communities around the world.
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