Every year, on the last day of the Chinese New Year events, it is customary in a number of Asian countries to hold Chap Guo Mei celebrations, which are dedicated to sky lanterns. There is another interpretation of this holiday. Sometimes this name hides Valentine's Day, but only in the Chinese manner. It is customary to hold celebrations on the fifteenth night from the beginning of the New Year. This year, Chap Guo Mei falls on February 22nd.
As is the case with other holidays, many legends have been formed around the Chinese Valentine's Day and there are several interesting traditions that are characteristic of different regions of Asia. According to the most famous legend, in ancient times, girls could not leave their homes, except for this holiday. In the company of the servants accompanying them, they visited temples, and young men in love with them received a unique opportunity to see their beloved.
Well, the most popular tradition associated with this holiday is a kind of fortune-telling with making wishes - free girls throw tangerines into the river and ask fate to give them a couple. The Slavs also have a similar tradition, but unmarried girls throw wreaths into the river, wondering about a happy married life. And this is done on the night of Ivan Kupala.
Among tourists, the most popular place to participate in colorful celebrations is the island of Penang. On the huge sandy beaches this night a unique action unfolds - colorful festivals are held, and guests can taste the most exquisite traditional dishes. In the capital of the island - Georgetown - the festival takes place in the central square, which is located at the foot of the famous Fort Cornwallis.
So the guests of the event will have the opportunity not only to enjoy the unusual celebration of the familiar Valentine's Day, but, quite possibly, will be able to meet their fate, which will sit on the shore and throw tangerines into the water.
