Why We Hang Lanterns During Chinese New Year Chinese New Year, also known as Spring Festival, is the most important celebration in Chinese culture. It is a time to reunite with family and friends, share delicious food, and wish for good fortune and prosperity in the coming year. One of the most distinctive traditions of Chinese New Year is hanging lanterns, which has been passed down for thousands of years. But why do we hang lanterns during Chinese New Year? The origin of hanging lanterns during Chinese New Year can be traced back to the Han Dynasty (206 BC – 220 AD). At that time, people believed that hanging lanterns could help ward off evil spirits and bring good luck. In ancient times, lanterns were made of silk or paper and painted with various auspicious symbols, such as dragons, phoenixes, and flowers. Nowadays, lanterns come in all shapes and sizes, and are made from a variety of materials such as bamboo, paper, and plastic. The lanterns are not only decorative, but also have special meanings. For example, red lanterns symbolize good luck and happiness, while gold lanterns represent wealth and prosperity. Lanterns in different colors and shapes also have different meanings. For instance, round lanterns represent harmony and completeness, while rectangular lanterns symbolize tranquility and stability. Hanging lanterns not only create a festive atmosphere, but also carry people's good wishes and aspirations for the new year. In addition to hanging lanterns, Chinese New Year is also a time for lighting firecrackers and fireworks. Unlike lanterns, which have a positive connotation, the use of firecrackers and fireworks during Chinese New Year has a more ancient purpose. It was believed that loud noises could scare away evil spirits, which were considered to be active during the transition between the old and new year. Therefore, the tradition of setting off firecrackers and fireworks at midnight on New Year's Eve is still widely observed in China and other Chinese communities around the world. In conclusion, the tradition of hanging lanterns during Chinese New Year is deeply rooted in Chinese culture and has been passed down for centuries. It not only adds to the festive atmosphere, but also represents people's hopes and aspirations for a better future. Hanging lanterns is a celebration of the new year and the blessings that it brings.