On the evening of February 12, the Dragon Lantern Rolling activity started in Youshi village of Gaotingsi town, Yongxing county. Every household was brightly lit. Local villagers beat drums and lit firecrackers, started dragon lantern rolling to pray for good weather and abundant harvests in the new year. 

 

 

 

At around 8 o'clock in the evening, the young men lit incense and candles immediately after the sound of firecrackers. The respected elders in the village inserted the first stick of incense for the dragon head. 

 

 

 

When the auspicious time came, the players flied the dragon from the village entrance, bringing good fortune to every household. 

 

 

 

The most lively part of the activity was the “Sweeping the Evil(house)” to eliminate the evil and bad luck. Villagers decorated their homes with colorful lights, lit candles and burned incense in front of their doors, and set off firecrackers to welcome the arrival of the dragon. 

 

 

 

The dragon would nod three times from house to house, symbolizing all going well, abundant harvests, peace and prosperity for the country and the people.

 

 

The river lanterns guided the dragon lantern to the riverside. The villagers followed the dragon lantern team to feel the lively atmosphere. Tourists took out their phones and cameras to record the unforgettable moments and share this joy with their family and friends. 

 

 

The straw dragon lantern was finally tossed into the river. So far the activity came to an end. Everyone was looking forward to a peaceful and smooth new year.

 

 

 

Chinese source: hunantoday