This February, the streets of Debrecen will come alive with lights, music, and festive cheer as the city hosts an exciting winter-chasing street ball. Organized by the Debrecen Creative Community and the Confucius Institute, the Chinese Lantern Festival promises an unforgettable evening of cultural experiences and family-friendly entertainment.
A Fusion of Traditions
The Chinese Lantern Festival marks the end of the Chinese New Year celebrations and is known for its vibrant lantern displays, performances, and symbolic rituals welcoming spring. Interestingly, this event coincides with Hungary’s traditional carnival season, making it a unique fusion of Eastern and Western festivities. The festival offers a wonderful opportunity to learn about Chinese culture while embracing the local tradition of bidding farewell to winter.
Exciting Programme Highlights
Visitors can enjoy a spectacular lineup of performances and activities throughout the event. The programme includes:
- Traditional Chinese Music & Dance – Experience authentic Chinese performances, including a showcase of the kucheng (guzheng), a classic Chinese musical instrument.
- Fire Juggling Light Show – A mesmerizing display of fire artistry that will illuminate the evening.
- Costume Contest for Children – Young participants can dress up in carnival costumes and compete for fantastic prizes.
- Aquamano Family Concert & Street Ball – A musical carnival atmosphere for all ages to enjoy.
- Winter-Chasing Ceremony – Join the crowd in a noisy, spirited ritual using wooden spoons, bells, and other sound-making tools to drive away the cold and welcome the arrival of spring.
Event Details
Location: Batthyány street
Date: February 21 (Friday)
Time: 16:45 – 19:00
Free Entry
Programme Schedule
- 16:15-17:00 – Storytelling and crafting session at Debrecen Pagony Bookstore
- 16:45 – Costume contest participant registration & introduction to the Chinese language
- 17:00 – Welcome speech
- 17:15 – Chinese dance and music performance
- 17:30 – Fire jugglers’ light show
- 17:45 – Traditional carnival, costume contest, and photography
- 18:00 – Musical carnival family show with Aquamano
- 18:50-19:00 – Winter-chasing ceremony
The event is financially supported by CATL. Please note that the programme is subject to change.
Join the Celebration!
Bring your family and friends, wear your best carnival costume, and don’t forget your noise-making tools! This event promises a fantastic mix of cultural discovery, entertainment, and community spirit. We look forward to seeing you at this magical evening in Debrecen!
More infos at the Facebook event.
