Sky Paper Lanterns

If you have always wanted to know what paper lanterns are made of, then you should be aware that both rice paper bags and lit candles are used on a common basis. They are called sky lanterns because they drift in the air, the floating guaranteed by the burning of the candle inside; they will return, however, to the ground as soon as the candle burns out. Sky lanterns have a specific form for floating, one that closely resembles that of a regular balloon, unlike other paper lanterns, which have the most diverse shapes.

Although this means you will have to stick with the existing form, the rice paper used for the making of these sky lanterns can come in many wonderful colours; sky lanterns are amazing flying objects, often bearing messages and intimate thoughts, carrying them up there where they belong. You too can hope that the wishes written on that rice paper will turn out exactly as you want, the sky candles taking them high above the clouds.

With a festival of their own dedicated to them and numerous celebrations in which they are used, it is no wonder that sky lanterns are so popular. The 15th day of the first month of the lunar year marks the celebration of the Chinese Lantern Festival, in conjunction with the full moon. The origins of the festival date back several thousand years, the festivities held for the Chinese New Year culminating with this festival. The capital of Taiwan, Taipei, also hosts a similar festival. As a sign of good luck and letting go of all worries, sky lanterns and fireworks appear together in the sky.

Sky lanterns are often lit with candles, which presents a slight risk, especially when currents of air are involved. It is wise to be very cautious, eliminating any fire hazards and lowering the risk of the lanterns touching flammable objects. Think about all those people who have kept the tradition alive for so many years and be cautious yourself.

The appearance of sky lanterns up in the air creates an atmosphere of great excitement, turning any night into a memorable occasion. Be it a wedding, birthday party or just a simple gathering of friends, sky lanterns are perfect to use. Eco-friendly, these interesting objects do not hurt the environment in any way.

They’re delightfully magical!

Cody Scholberg, a lighting expert, writes at the paper lanterns guide. Check out this post on using japanese paper lanterns !