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Brides Hide from Lanterns in Ancient Festival Ritual

1/6/2026

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Summary

Story summary

The Lantern Festival custom "hiding from the lanterns" requires brides to avoid their husband's family lanterns on the festival night.
The practice is observed mainly in Shaanxi province in northern China and dates back to ancient times.
During the festival, brides must return to their parents' home or stay with neighbors.
In some regions, communities enforce the ritual for up to three years after marriage.

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Story summary

The Lantern Festival custom "hiding from the lanterns" requires brides to avoid their husband's family lanterns on the festival night.
The practice is observed mainly in Shaanxi province in northern China and dates back to ancient times.
During the festival, brides must return to their parents' home or stay with neighbors.
In some regions, communities enforce the ritual for up to three years after marriage.