Chinese lantern festival kicks off early in Chile

Santiago park was lit up in colour as the Chinese Lantern Festival returned to the city. The sculptures have been built by 41 artisans from China, mounting the figures on steel structures, modeled in wires, and then covered with hand-painted colourful silks.

The final pieces display animals, flowers, mythological beings and traditional scenes of Chinese culture. The festival marks the final day of the traditional Chinese New Year celebrations, and is celebrated on the 15th day of the first month in the Chinese lunar calendar.

In 2023 the festival will be celebrated on Sunday, February 5th. The display in Santiago will stay open until March 26, and the cost of entry is $13 for adults, $9 for children.