Exploring the Traditions of Lantern Festival in Foreign Countries
The Lantern Festival, also known as Yuanxiao Festival or Shangyuan Festival, is a traditional Chinese festival that falls on the 15th day of the first lunar month every year. Apart from China, this colorful festivity is also celebrated in other parts of the world, albeit with different customs and traditions. Let's take a closer look at some of the unique customs of the Lantern Festival in foreign countries.
Japan: Making Sticky Rice Dumplings (Tangyuan)
In Japan, the Lantern Festival is called "Shangyuan," and it is celebrated by making sticky rice dumplings known as "tangyuan." These dumplings are made by rolling rice flour into small balls and boiling them in water. The tangyuan are usually served with sweet bean paste or sesame paste to symbolize the full moon. Japanese people believe that eating tangyuan can bring good luck and happiness.
Korea: Flying Kites and Eating Sweet Pancakes (Yakgwa)
The Koreans celebrate the Lantern Festival by flying colorful kites and eating sweet pancakes called "yakgwa." The kites are usually made in the shape of animals or mythical creatures and flown in the open fields. The sweet pancakes, on the other hand, are made of honey, sesame oil, and wheat flour, and are believed to bring good luck and prosperity.
Malaysia and Singapore: Releasing Sky Lanterns
In Malaysia and Singapore, the Lantern Festival is celebrated by releasing sky lanterns into the night sky. Sky lanterns are made of paper or silk and equipped with a small candle or fuel cell. The lanterns are released into the air, and their colorful glow is said to bring good fortune and happiness to those who release them.
Vietnam: Making Glutinous Rice Cakes (Banh Chung)
The Vietnamese celebrate the Lantern Festival by making glutinous rice cake called "banh chung." These cakes are made of glutinous rice, green beans, and pork, wrapped in leaves and then boiled for several hours. The banh chung symbolizes the Earth, and it is believed that eating it will bring longevity and prosperity to the family.
Conclusion
The traditions of the Lantern Festival vary from country to country, but they all share the same spirit of unity, happiness, and good fortune. No matter how the festival is celebrated, it is a time for families to get together, feast on good food, and enjoy the festive atmosphere.
