Lanterns, as we all know, have always been a symbol of China. During the Lantern Festival, Chinese people hang red lanterns outside their doors. Families get together to celebrate the festival by watching millions of beautiful lanterns at night.
Chinese lanterns first appeared in the Han Dynasty. With a history of more than 1, 800 years, they are a perfect combination（结合） of Chinese painting, paper cutting, paper art as well as the use of lighting. There are many kinds of lanterns, such as bamboo lanterns, palace lanterns and pendant lanterns（吊灯）. The patterns on the lanterns can be different, including people, birds and flowers.
Traditionally, Chinese lanterns are used to symbolize family reunions （团聚）. However, today's lanterns have also become a symbol of traditional Chinese culture. They play an important role in people's life. With Chinese culture sweeping the world, Chinese lanterns are even used as house decorations（装饰） by many people who love Chinese culture. Nowadays, the materials of lanterns have changed from paper and bamboo to cloth and plastic. The colors and patterns of lanterns have also changed in some ways. Chinese lanterns are used in many different situations, such as weddings and birthdays.
