Chinese celebrate Lantern Festival

Chinese people are celebrating "Yuanxiao Jie", also known as Lantern Festival. The festival is held on the 15th day of the first lunar month. It is regarded as the grand finale of the Spring Festival season.

The Dragon and lion dance is a must-see during Lantern Festival. People  welcome the beginning of spring with a lot of noise.

Residents crowd streets to enjoy various folk performances or a grand parade. The whole country is in a festive mood.

A dancer said, "Our dragon dances celebrate the harvest and good life this year."

Sweet dumplings, or yuanxiao, are a delicacy typically enjoyed during Lantern festival. The dish signifies the unity and harmony of the family.

People visit a Lantern Festival carnival in Beijing, capital of China,  on Feb. 27, 2010. (Xinhua/Zheng Huansong)