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Chinese lanterns, otherwise known as sky lanterns or Chinese sky lanterns, are paper lanterns that are made from rice paper stretched over a frame containing a fuel source. When the flame from the fuel heats air in the lantern, the lantern rises into the air and stays airborne until the flame burns out. Chinese lanterns are traditionally used in Asian cultures. The history of the Chinese sky lantern dates from the 3rd century in China, when the Chinese used the paper lanterns as signals in wartime. The lantern was originally called a Khoom Fay lantern.

After using the lanterns for military purposes, they became popular at Chinese festivals. Sky lanterns were incorporated into celebrations and public events and became very popular with children. Many lantern-makers used the objects to show off their skills in decoration and the intricacy of their artwork. There are a number of lantern festivals taking place all over the world every year. People in Thailand use the lanterns throughout the year and send them flying into the air to celebrate special occasions. During special sky lantern celebrations, hundreds of the lanterns are launched into the air and many families decorate their houses with sky lanterns.

It is considered to be good luck to release a sky lantern into the sky. Many Asian cultures believe that the sky lanterns symbolise worries and troubles flying away into the air. Many people today release Chinese lanterns in the hope of generating good luck and fortune. Today Chinese lanterns are becoming increasingly popular with people in Western countries, as they continue to be popular in Asia. Sky lanterns are seen at music festivals, at public celebrations and at private parties. The sight of a flock of Chinese lanterns lighting up the sky is a special one and many people recreate the spectacle from their own gardens. Sky lanterns are used to celebrate the marriage of a happy couple, or the birth of a child. The lanterns may be sent into the air to commemorate the passing of a special person. Or, Chinese lanterns are a unique way to mark a birthday or congratulate someone on a worthy achievement. If you wish, you can carefully write your own wish on the lantern with marker pen and watch your wish rise into the air to hopefully be granted. Sky lanterns have a long history and tradition and today are a dramatic and beautiful part of any celebration or event.

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