Pingxi Sky Lantern Introduction
Heaven is considered the abode of the Celestial Palace in folk customs, where the supreme deity of folk beliefs, the Jade Emperor (commonly known as Tiāngōng), and various gods reside, providing protection to all citizens. Therefore, early on, people worshipped and prayed to the heavens for Tiāngōng's blessings, making heaven represent the benevolent and omnipotent deity for the Han people. Sky lanterns, also known as Kongming lanterns, are said to have been invented by Zhuge Liang during the Three Kingdoms period. According to legend, Zhuge Liang was trapped in Pingyang City by Sima Yi and was unable to communicate with the outside world, so he invented large lanterns that utilized the principle of hot air rising, allowing the lanterns to float into the sky as a means of military communication. Later, it became a folk practice as an intermediary for people to pray to the heavens for blessings. During the Lantern Festival on the fifteenth day of the first lunar month, sky lanterns are released to "reach the hearing of heaven," signifying prayers to Tiāngōng. The origin of sky lanterns being released in Pingxi can be traced back to the Daoguang era of the Qing Dynasty when residents plowing the area were troubled by bandits and took refuge in the mountains. After the crisis passed, those who remained in the village released sky lanterns as a signal to inform their families to return home. As the situation stabilized, this practice became a local custom. Villagers also often write blessings and wishes on the lanterns, which are released during the Lantern Festival, praying for the wishes of the year and seeking the protection of the deities for their family's safety. Thus, sky lanterns are also referred to as "blessing lanterns" or "peace lanterns." The Shifen area in New Taipei City, surrounded by mountains with an average humidity of 75-80% and a rainy, humid natural environment, has become the only place recognized by the local government where sky lanterns can be released safely. It is this unique environment that has helped preserve and continue this traditional culture in a different form. (Source: New Taipei City Pingxi Sky Lantern Festival official website)
