The 15th day of the first lunar month is the traditional Shangyuan Festival in China, also known as the Lantern Festival. On this day, families decorate their houses with lanterns and celebrate the festival joyfully. However, are Shangyuan Festival and Lantern Festival the same festival? What are the customs on the 15th day of the first lunar month? Let's take a look together.

Firstly, the relationship between Shangyuan Festival and Lantern Festival: Shangyuan Festival, also known as Lantern Festival, Xiaozhengyue, Yuanxi, etc., is one of the important traditional festivals in China. Shangyuan Festival originated from sacrificial activities in ancient times and gradually evolved into folk celebrations. The Lantern Festival, on the other hand, is named because the moon is particularly bright on this night, symbolizing reunion and happiness, and is also known as the "Night of the Full Moon".

Overall, Shangyuan Festival and Lantern Festival are actually the same festival, just with different names. In ancient times, Shangyuan Festival was mainly a sacrificial activity for the court and nobility, while the Lantern Festival was more reflected in folk celebrations. Nowadays, these two festivals have merged into one and become a festive celebration shared by the Chinese people.

Secondly, customs on the 15th day of the first lunar month:

1. Lantern Festival: On this day, grand lantern festivals are held all over the country. People make lanterns of various shapes and colors, such as dragon lanterns, lion dances, and flower baskets, which are displayed in the streets and lanes for people to admire. These colorful lanterns not only add to the festive atmosphere but also symbolize brightness and hope.

2. Guessing lantern riddles: Guessing lantern riddles is an important activity during the Lantern Festival. People write riddles on lanterns for others to guess. Those who guess correctly can win prizes. This educational and entertaining activity can not only exercise people's wisdom but also enhance the bond between relatives and friends.

3. Eating yuanxiao: Yuanxiao, also known as sweet dumplings, is a must-have delicacy on the 15th day of the first lunar month. Yuanxiao is a round cake made from glutinous rice flour with fillings such as sesame, bean paste, and nuts. Eating yuanxiao symbolizes reunion and implies family harmony and happiness.

4. Dragon and lion dances: Dragon and lion dances are one of the most distinctive folk performances during the Lantern Festival. Teams of dragon and lion dancers roam the streets and lanes, accompanied by the sound of gongs and drums, creating a lively and festive atmosphere. This activity not only showcases the unique culture of the Chinese nation but also embodies people's aspirations and wishes for a better life.

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