Lanterns have been more than an indispensable source of light in ancient homes. They have been an important decorative feature in homes and monuments everywhere, but in the town of Hoi An, they’ve taken on special cultural dimensions.
In an affirmation that this traditional product has become a cultural icon of the town, a lantern design competition was launched here during the Mid-Autumn Festival three years ago.
The lanterns have made the town especially attractive to visitors.
They are not only beautiful, diverse and creative; they also highlight these qualities in the hold houses that they cast light on.
The streets of Hoi An are an unforgettable sight on festivals, the full-moon day and the 1st day of lunar month, with an array of shapes, textures and casting a soft glow in many colors.
The lanterns on Bach Dang Street reflected in the Hoai River look like the Milky Way come down to earth.
After the success of the Hoi An Lantern Festival in 2009, its second edition will be held from February 13 to 27 this year on a larger scale, including artistic displays on the streets and lantern arrangement competitions.
This year’s festival also celebrates Tet, the lunar New Year, and honors the traditional handicraft skill of making lanterns, said Vo Phung, Director of Hoi An Cultural Center.
The opening ceremony of the festival will be organized on Lunar New Year’s eve with best wishes to all the people in the country and the world, he said.
“More than 100 enterprises, organizations and officials will join the festival. The organizing board encourages contestants to make large-scale lanterns, wishing people a Happy New Year that brings health, prosperity, and peace.”
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