The Lantern Festival is a radiant spectacle that wraps up the Chinese New Year celebrations. This kaleidoscope of lights takes place on the 15th day of the first lunar month, which usually falls in February or March.

What you need to know:

• Lighting the Night: The main event involves people parading around with various types of lanterns, illuminating the night sky like a constellation on Earth.

• Moon Matters: It happens on the first full moon of the Chinese lunar year, serving as a symbol of unity and completeness.

• Riddles on Lanterns: A whimsical part of the festivities is the "guessing lantern riddles" game. Lanterns often have riddles written on them, and it's a popular activity to solve these brain-teasers.

• Foodie's Delight: No festival is complete without food, and this one's special dish is "Yuanxiao" or "Tangyuan," glutinous rice balls usually filled with sweet or savory ingredients. They symbolize family unity and completeness.

• Diverse Celebration: Although it originated in China, the festival has lit up other parts of Asia too. Japan, Vietnam, and Korea have their own versions, each with unique local flavors.

• Ancient yet Modern: This tradition dates back over 2,000 years but has effortlessly transitioned into the modern age, with LED lanterns and even virtual celebrations.

The Lantern Festival is not just an exhibition of glowing orbs but a celebration that lights up hearts, symbolizes unity, and marks the climax of the Chinese New Year festivities.