The Chinese Lantern Festival is held every summer in Philadelphia’s Franklin Park. The Chinese tradition dates back to the Han Dynasty (206BC – 220AD) when Buddhist monks lit lanterns to honor Buddha. It’s usually celebrated on the 15th day of the first lunar month to mark the end of the lunar year. However, due to cold temperatures in the Philadelphia region at that time of year, it’s more comfortable to have the outdoor celebration from June to the end of August.
The traditional images and the lanterns themselves blend light, color, and movement in a way that is truly spectacular! LED lights and other modern construction methods are used alongside older forms of display.
The Philadelphia Chinese Lantern Festival offers live performances of traditional dance, acrobatics, and cooking demonstrations, one of which we attended on dumpling preparation.
Read more about the history of the lantern festival here: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=kD0XlUQ9Wgo&t=51
The Philadelphia Lantern Festival is a good example of how cultural traditions can connect us in today’s world. LSC’s programs on intercultural training can offer you insights to help support your work and/or upcoming travel plans. Please reach out to our team for details about customized intercultural training programs.