Falling on the 15th day of the first lunar month, Yuan Xiao marks the final day of Chinese New Year celebrations. Also known as Shangyuan, it’s a night where the sky is painted with a myriad of colourful lanterns. But it’s not just about the visual spectacle. Each lantern carries a story, a wish, or a dream, floating up to the heavens, hoping for blessings and good fortune.
Now, what’s a festival without some scrumptious food? Yuan Xiao also introduces us to the delightful “tangyuan” or glutinous rice balls that can be either sweet or savoury. They symbolise family unity and completeness. Sharing a bowl with loved ones is a cherished tradition, reinforcing bonds and creating memories so you may find yourself delivering a few of these tasty treats.
Beyond the lanterns and tangyuan, Yuan Xiao is a time for lion dances, riddles, and songs. Streets come alive with performances, laughter, and the shared joy of a community coming together. We recommend that you stay safe on roads that are particularly busy and to be aware of other vehicles and pedestrians celebrating if you plan to deliver during the celebrations. 🍚😋🧡