The Lantern Festival falls on the 15th day of the first lunar month, usually in February or March according to the Gregorian calendar. On that day, lanterns of various shapes and sizes are hung in the streets, attracting countless visitors. Excited children carry bought or handmade lanterns as they stroll down the streets.

Guessing lantern riddles is a very popular activity during festivals especially the Lantern Festival or other special occasions in China. Lantern owners write riddles on a piece of paper and post them on the lanterns.

If visitors think they know the answers to the riddles, they can pull the paper out of the lanterns and go to the owners to check them. If they are right, they receive a little gift. The activity emerged when people enjoyed lanterns during the Song Dynasty (960-1279). Since riddle guessing is interesting and full of wisdom, it has become popular among all walks of life.