Auckland Central
Auckland, Auckland Region

The 2003 Lantern Festival was a huge success, with over 120,000 people attending over three nights. Albert Park lit up with hundreds of glorious lanterns, including brand new designs from China. There were spectacular overseas performers, plus the great food, crafts, fortune-telling, entertainment and martial arts displays, that have made the Lantern Festival one of the highlights of Auckland's summer event calendar.

The 2003 festival greeted the Year of the Sheep in the Chinese zodiac - a very relevant celebration for New Zealand! So not only did those coming along have an opportunity to be part of an ancient Chinese tradition, they also experienced a unique New Zealand touch with sheep lanterns specially commissioned from China.

The 2003 festival, the fourth to be held by Asia 2000 in partnership with Auckland City, also coincided with the celebration of Valentine?s Day. In ancient times in China the Lantern Festival was popularly referred to as the Chinese lovers? festival as it provided a then rare opportunity for young men and women to meet while admiring the lantern displays. There might have been more than a hint of romance in the air!

Added by Shadowfoot on January 5, 2004

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