The Chinese Lantern Festival is also an important family day. But unlike the Spring Festival when people stay home for reunion dinners, it is a day for going out and about – admiring lanterns and the bright full moon in the sky. This is a tradition originating from the Western Han Dynasty (202 B.C.-AD 8).

Thousands of fancy lanterns are displayed at the Nangong World Botanical Amusement Park in southern Beijing.

They are created in colors and shapes of a great variety of animals such as parrots, peacocks, and phoenixes. Of course, a series of pig-themed lanterns were also on display.

These works are from artisans in Zigong City, Sichuan Province, which is well-known for its lantern art and culture.

"Up to 5,000 lanterns with about 120 themes are on display here, most of which were hand made by craftsmen from Zigong. There are also works made using 3D printing. We also have man-made snow to add charm to the surroundings," said Zhao Caili, deputy manager of the publicity department of Nangong Park.

Besides appreciating lanterns, visitors can explore arts and crafts of old Beijing, acrobatics and stunt shows. For senior citizens, it brings back some of their childhood memories.

"Solving riddles on lanterns is a time-honored tradition during the festival. My husband and I like it very much. The event is taking us back to the days when we were young," said one visitor.

The Lantern Fair at Nangong Park lights up at 6 o'clock every evening until March 8.