Chinese Red lanterns

If you will be strolling in the malls of Metro Manila, you will surely see lots of red lanterns. It is because of the upcoming Chinese New Year this February 16 and it was declared as a special non-working holiday because of the said occasion. This year is said to be the year of the dog based on the Chinese Calendar.

Based in Wikipedia "The traditional Chinese calendar is a lunisolar calendar which reckons years, months and days according to astronomical phenomena. As of 2017, the Chinese calendar is defined by GB/T 33661-2017 Calculation and promulgation of the Chinese calendar, which the Standardization Administration of China issued on May 12, 2017. the days begin and end at midnight. The months begin on the day with the dark (new) moon. The years begin with the dark moon near the midpoint between winter solstice and spring equinox. The solar terms are the important components of the Chinese calendar. In a month there are one to three solar terms."

The paper lanterns were mainly used as lamps in ancient China and we can usually see these in their classic movies or classic themed movies. Since there is electricity already in modern times, the use of these lanterns are mainly for decoration purposes and for good luck.

Red is the dominant color for the lanterns as this color symbolizes prosperity and, it is usually decorated with red and gold colored tassels. That is why it is important for them to use red lanterns as decorations during Chinese occasions and/or celebrations.

Below are some more red lantern photos that I took when I had the opportunity to do so. First set of photos are shots from the Shangri-La Plaza Mall in Ortigas Center, Mandaluyong, Philippines.

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Below are the photos I took in SM Megamall which is one of the largest mall in Asia. It is located near the Shangri-La Plaza, just few minutes walk away between establishments.

Below is a photo I took when I visited Mall of Asia located in Pasay city, Philippines.