Beijing Celebrates Lantern Festival, Marking End of Spring Festival

Today, March 3, 2026, Beijing celebrates the Lantern Festival, officially concluding the Spring Festival (Chinese New Year) celebrations. The festival, known as Yuan Xiao Jie or Yuanxiao Festival, marks the first full moon of the new lunar year and is a time for vibrant displays, traditional performances, and cherished customs.

A City Illuminated: Lantern Displays Across Beijing

Beijing is transformed into a city of light during the Lantern Festival, with thousands of glowing lanterns adorning streets and landmarks . In 2026, over 60,000 lanterns are set to illuminate nine major sites across the metropolis .

Events and Activities

Several districts are hosting special events. Shijingshan District features the 2026 Shijingshan Amusement Park Spring Festival Fair & Lantern Garden Party, combining intangible cultural heritage performances, float parades, and six themed lantern displays . The World Park Lantern Carnival, running until March 3, showcases 60,000 lights across themed zones representing five continents, with tickets costing ¥80 (or ¥60 if booked in advance) . Attendees can witness the spectacular Tie Hua (iron flower) performance, a unique display of molten iron sparks .

Traditions and Customs

The Lantern Festival is steeped in tradition. Streets are decorated with colorful lanterns, often inscribed with riddles . A popular custom involves eating tangyuan, sweet rice balls symbolizing family unity and completeness . Dragon and lion dances, and fireworks also contribute to the festive atmosphere .

Blending Tradition and Technology

This year’s Spring Festival lantern fairs across China, including those in Beijing, blend traditional folk culture with technological innovation and immersive experiences .

Key Takeaways

• The Lantern Festival marks the end of the Spring Festival celebrations.
• Beijing is hosting numerous lantern displays and events across multiple districts.
• Traditional customs include lantern riddles, eating tangyuan, and enjoying dragon and lion dances.
• The 2026 festivals incorporate both traditional elements and modern technological displays.

As the Lantern Festival concludes, it signifies a hopeful start to the new lunar year, filled with light, unity, and prosperity.