Be a participant of tradition

The streets of Huishan Ancient Town are decorated with millions of colorful lanterns during the Lantern festival. [Photo/Xu Yiyi]

Having lived near Huishan Ancient Town for over 20 years, I'm reluctant to miss any of the town's special events. My parents always take me to the temple fairs and flower shows during the holidays. I dare say I know every street in town.

But among the many events, what impresses me most are the Lantern Festival celebrations, because on these days, a whole new town appears before my eyes. As night falls, the lanterns begin to glow and light up the streets. Though Huishan Ancient Town is known as a quiet and gentle town in the daytime, it's lively and bustling on the evening of the Lantern Festival. The streets of Huishan Ancient Town are decorated with millions of colorful lanterns during the Lantern festival.

The lanterns are usually colorful and intricately designed, and each has a picture with a special meaning, such as praying for safety, good luck, or longevity, as well as expressing gratitude.

The event held at Xiuzhang Pavilion in the center of town received the warmest response from children. Lion and dragon dances, face-changing performances, and acrobatics shows were staged there. The small square in front of the pavilion was packed with people, who would applaud and cheer from time to time.

With merchants selling small lanterns and folk artists giving interesting performances, visitors were able to enjoy a warm and festive traditional Chinese atmosphere.

Along the streets, children were cheerfully hanging small lanterns and taking photos with their parents. I still remember the first lantern I ever made during the Lantern Festival, when I was a small child. My grandfather helped me make it, and it was in the shape of a white rabbit. Though my grandfather did almost all the work and the lantern was rather simple, it still gave me a rough understanding of the Lantern Festival customs.

Lantern Festival celebrations today are becoming more and more commercial. People have become spectators instead of participants. I believe there should be more activities that people, especially children, can directly participate in. Activities such as making lanterns or experiencing dragon dances would be a step in the right direction. I think people are willing to participate even if they have to pay for these kinds of events.