The Chinese Lantern Festival is known for being celebrated on the 15th day of the first month in the Chinese calendar. The festival is a key part of Chinese culture and it’s a tradition that dates back to more than a thousand years ago. Philadelphia is hosting the second Chinese Lantern Festival at Franklin Square, located between 6th St & Race St.
This year’s festival features over 20 handmade lantern sculptures of important elements in Chinese culture. The dragon is probably the most popular sculpture and is usually found in every lantern festival. In China, many believe that they are descendants of dragons. In Philly, visitors encounter a 200 foot long dragon sculpture that weighs 3 thousand pounds and it is absolutely mind blowing. This mythical creature represents power and good fortune.
The lanterns were built exclusively for the Philadelphia Festival, made by 30 artists over a month period. Each structure is made out of welded steal frames with hundreds of LED lights installed inside of them. The designs are covered with painted silk, creating stunning colorful sculptures. All of the materials were brought from China in cargo containers.
This is an unforgettable experience, filled with friendly pandas, under the sea creatures, graceful tulips around the fountain and of course, traditional food options. The hands of these artists are definitely present in each detail, proving that when creativity meets craftsmanship, the only possible result is pure magic.
Don’t let these images fool you, dear reader. It is so, but SO much better in person. The Festival will be open until June 18th, 2017. Tickets can be purchased here.
Endless Rotation 