Also known as the 'Lantern Festival' and the second reunion of Chinese New Year falls on 24th February 2024.
As significant as the first day, this is the day of the last revelry and a time to look forward to the next twelve month of the year with confidence and strength. Lights play an important role in this celebrations as it is said that this is symbolic of lighting the way ahead for a year of success and prosperity. Together with the loud sounds of drums and gongs from lion dances, it is hoped that these energies will elevate everyone to levels of energies and clear directions.
The Chinese Lantern Festival continues the customs related to lights in the early days, such as viewing lanterns and guessing lantern riddles which can be seen in many regions.
The custom of walking on a bridge during the Lantern Festival can be seen in various places. Also known as stepping and crossing the auspicious bridge, it is believed that doing so shall eliminate and dissipate any diseases, walking on all diseases, bringing with it a year of robust health.
In Malaysia and Singapore, ethnic group also has the custom of admiring lanterns and guessing lantern riddles. During the Lantern Festival, unmarried men and women gather by the river to throw oranges into the river with their names and contact details, wishing and hoping to meet a partner they can join hands with for life.
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