The Qianmen Shung Lantern Party provides a popular location for tourists and locals alike to gather and celebrate the Chinese New Year in Beijing. Craftsmen from across the country congregate to display their lanterns, while tourists enjoy riddles encrypted on the paper lanterns and participate in games provided free of charge.

Be sure to try Yuanxiao--the traditional treat of the Lantern Festival. This dumpling served in soup symbolizes unity and togetherness in Chinese culture and is the staple of the festival. Qianmen Avenue is accessible by bus and the subway line two, which drops you off directly at Qianmen station.

The Lantern Festival takes place in several other locations throughout Beijing, including the Cultural Palace of the Working People, Winter Palace, Longtanhu, and Garden of Purple Bamboo. Regardless of where you watch, anyone who enjoys art, culture, and festivals will be mesmerized by the grandeur of the Lantern Festival. This family friendly event is sure to please.

What: The Lantern Festival
Where: Quianmen and other locations across Beijing
When: February 6^th, 2012
URL: http://www.beijingholiday.com/culture/lantern-festival.html

Recommended Hotel: The Beijing Hotel