The Magic of Mid-Autumn Festival Lanterns: Unveiling the Traditions and Symbolism

The Mid-Autumn Festival, with its vibrant lantern traditions, evokes cherished childhood memories for many. The festival's iconic lanterns, such as the Star Lantern and the Military Lantern, are more than just illuminated decorations; they symbolize wishes, aspirations, and a sense of cultural heritage.

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The colorful lanterns, crafted from everyday materials such as paper, fabric, silk, colorful nylon paper, bamboo, and candles, hold a plethora of meanings. The traditional Mid-Autumn lantern comes in various shapes, such as the carp lantern, star lantern, and military lantern, evoking nostalgic childhood memories and carrying different significances.

Reference: 12 simple and cute DIY lantern ideas for your kids

1Star Lantern

The star lantern is the most popular type among Vietnamese during the Mid-Autumn Festival. These colorful five-pointed star lanterns, enclosed by a circle, are easily found in most shops. The Mid-Autumn star lantern is relatively simple to make, originally crafted from colorful nylon paper. Nowadays, artisans decorate them with various colorful patterns and gold and silver threads for a more modern and attractive look.

The image of the five-pointed star enclosed by a circle symbolizes the five elements and yin and yang in Feng Shui. Thus, this lantern represents balance and harmony in relationships, between people, and between humans and nature.

Further Reading: Easy DIY star lantern with 3 steps

2Carp Lantern

The carp lantern is one of the most traditional and meaningful lanterns for children. The image of the carp is deeply rooted in ancient legends and has been a part of Vietnamese culture for generations.

The carp appears in the legend of leaping over the dragon gate, symbolizing perseverance and overcoming adversity. The Mid-Autumn carp lantern represents striving and rising above challenges. Additionally, the carp lantern is decorated with red nylon paper and colorful patterns, making it dazzling and gorgeous.

Reference: Easy DIY carp lantern with paper

3Military Lantern

Originating from China, this military lantern is associated with the remembrance of King Luu Duc, a wise and virtuous ruler in ancient Chinese society.

The Mid-Autumn military lantern symbolizes filial piety and the love and respect of children for their parents and elders.

Further Reading: DIY paper military lantern for Mid-Autumn Festival

4Round Lantern

In Vietnam, round lanterns are sold year-round, similar to star lanterns. They are not only used for children’s lantern processions during the Mid-Autumn Festival but also for decoration. With its round shape and the warm glow of the candle inside, the round lantern is believed to represent the full moon on the 15th day of the eighth lunar month, symbolizing completeness and brightness. Broadly speaking, it also signifies appreciation for the gentle beauty of nature (the moon) and gratitude for a bountiful harvest.

With this insight, you now understand the significance of traditional Mid-Autumn lanterns. Choose a lantern that holds the most meaning for you and get creative! With simple materials, you can craft your own unique lantern or gift one to a loved one.

Reference: Beautiful and simple DIY paper lanterns for kids

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Frequently asked questions

The Mid-Autumn Festival is a traditional festival celebrated by Vietnamese and Chinese people, among other Asian cultures. It is a time to give thanks for the harvest and pray for good fortune and prosperity. The festival is also a celebration of family reunions and is often referred to as the ‘Festival of Reunion’. It is believed that on this day, the moon is at its brightest and roundest, symbolizing completeness and unity.

Lanterns are an integral part of the Mid-Autumn Festival celebrations. They are believed to guide and light the way for lost souls to return to earth and reunite with their families. The lanterns are also a symbol of letting go of the past and moving forward with hope and positivity. During the festival, people carry lanterns, often in the shape of rabbits or the full moon, and release them into the sky or float them on water.

Mooncakes are the most iconic food associated with the Mid-moon cakes, often exchanged as gifts and enjoyed with tea. Other traditional foods include fruits like pomelos and watermelons, and dishes made with autumn crops such as pumpkins and sweet potatoes. Activities during the festival include lion and dragon dances, releasing sky lanterns, and playing games like guessing lantern riddles.

While the traditional aspects of the festival are still honored, modern celebrations often include cultural performances, music concerts, and firework displays. People also use this opportunity to raise funds for charitable causes and promote cultural awareness and unity within their communities.

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