To mark Chinese New Year, it traditional to light large, ornate lanterns that become works of art. The custom stems from the philosophy of letting go of the self of the past year and entering a new self for a new year. Lantern festivals had become large-scale celebrations by the time of the Qing dynasty around 1616 and continue to this day.
This year London will mark the Chinese New Year with a number of events, including the Magical Lantern Festival. In 2016, the festival was a wild success in its first edition, and it returns this year to celebrate the beginning of the year of the rooster.
Celebrations continue until Feb. 26, with Chiswick House Gardens turned into a spectacular collection of installations, stalls, a synthetic ice rink and virtual reality experiences. This year the theme is Explore the Silk Road, with lanterns highlighting the history of the historic trade route from China to Europe.
Adult tickets to the festival cost $21, while sessions on the ice rink will set you back an extra $10. If you want to try out the virtual reality experience, there is an extra $6 charge, and all of the tickets can be bought online from Eventbrite.
More information on the festival itself is available on the Magical Lantern Festival website. It looks to be a great event for anyone interested in Chinese culture or those of an artistic persuasion.
There are also Magical Lantern Festivals in Leeds and Birmingham if you are not in London.
Read This Next
#TrazeeTravel
Insta FeedDestinations / North America
May 3, 20243 Reasons to Visit Midland, North Carolina, This Summer
Located just 30 minutes from Charlotte, North Carolina, Midland is a great escape from the busy city. With beautiful wineries, thriving pastures and farms, and rolling hills, this town should make your summer list.
Sponsored Content
Interior Upgrades Begin Rolling Out Across United Fleet
United Airlines is in the midst of a major initiative to modernize its fleet over the next several years. After first announcing the plan in 2021, planes fitted with United’s signature interior are finally beginning to appear across the airline’s narrowbody fleet of Boeing and Airbus planes. United flyers are sure to notice these enhancements from the moment they step on board: Each new or updated plane sports remodeled seats, seatback entertainment screens for everyone, Bluetooth connectivity and more, all adding up to a better experience on every journey.
Hotel
May 3, 20244 Unique Hotels for Surf Lovers
Surf’s up! Head to these resorts around the world offering prime surfing options.
Hotel
May 2, 2024This Hotel Has a Poutine Walk-Up Window
If you love poutine — the Canadian dish that’s basically fries with cheese curds covered in gravy — then you’re going to want to make tracks to one specific travel destination. No, not Canada. You’ll want to go to this hotel with its own poutine walk-up window.
Sponsored Content
Welcome to Wyndham Monterrey Ambassador Centro
Wyndham Monterrey Ambassador Centro, operated by Aimbridge LATAM, opened its doors, welcoming guests to one of the most iconic and traditional properties in Monterrey, Nuevo León. Boasting 229 rooms and suites, the hotel, part of Wyndham Hotels & Resorts, is ready for discerning travelers. Wyndham Hotels & Resorts is the largest hotel franchise company in the world with approximately 9,100 hotels in more than 95 countries.
Restaurant
May 2, 2024A New Rooftop Bar and Venue Comes to South London
Opening May 4, Pergola Brixton marks South London’s latest rooftop opening for visitors and locals alike to enjoy. Surrounded by tropical greenery and bright, colorful murals, Pergola Brixton transports guests to an island paradise, complete with a retractable roof terrace.
ShareThis