Lantern Festival Taboo: Why New Wives in China Must 'Hide'

A unique tradition in northern China orders newly married women to leave their husbands' homes during the first Lantern Festival after their wedding. This custom is called "hiding from the lanterns." The Lantern Festival marks the end of the Lunar New Year celebrations. It falls on the 15th day of the first lunar month. On this night, families light lanterns, which are widely seen as symbols of light and hope. But in some regions, these lanterns become a taboo for new wives. Tradition states that a bride must avoid seeing the lanterns hung by her husband's family. She often returns to her own parents' home for the festival. The practice is rooted in old beliefs. One common explanation is to avoid bad luck. Some believe the lanterns' light could cause friction between the new wife and her in-laws if she sees them too soon. The custom highlights how ancient folklore shapes modern holidays. While not universally practiced today, "hiding from the lanterns" remains a known part of regional cultural heritage.