Today marks the Lantern Festival, the fifteenth day of the first lunar month. Besides the moon, lanterns, and celebration, there is a more special celestial event to look forward to— A total lunar eclipse is about to grace the sky tonight.

 

In eastern China, the full eclipse phase will be entirely visible. In central China, viewers can observe a partially eclipsed moon rising before its gradual return to fullness. In western China, the spectacle will be visible from the end of the total eclipse to the final phase.

 

 

The partial eclipse will begin at 17:49 on March 3. Only viewers in northeastern China can spot the moon above the horizon.

 

The total eclipse will begin at 19:04 as the moon slips fully in shadow. A “blood moon” will replace the full moon, and the sky will darken once again, revealing stars previously hidden by the moonlight of the full moon.

 

The maximum eclipse will happen at 19:33, when the moon appears at its dimmest. Following this phase, the moon will gradually brighten again.

 

The total eclipse will end at 20:02 as the moon starts to regain its white glow. Over the following one hour or more, the dark bite on the moon will slowly shrink.

 

At 21:17, the partial eclipse will conclude, and the moon will return to its fullness.

 

 

The 2026 Wuhou Shrine Chengdu Temple Fair continues through the fifteenth day of the first lunar month (March 3) and welcomes visitors during the Lantern Festival as usual. Decorated with various types of lantern sets, pavilions and winding paths over the lake are turned into a world of light and shadow.

 

 

The 55th Chengdu International Panda Lantern Festival is held at Xifeng Island, Dong’an Lake, featuring themed lantern displays, performances and experience activities, markets, and specialty snacks. The event opens daily from 15:00 to 22:30 through March 22, with lanterns lighting up at 18:30.

 

 

On March 3, a Hanfu-themed gathering is held at Dongmen Wharf, where Hanfu enthusiasts participate in a display event, interactive games, and craft activities, followed by a festive parade in the evening. Following the parade, visitors can enjoy a night cruise, where NPCs interact with visitors in lantern riddle games. Meanwhile, immersive performances and traditional games, such as pitch-pot, ring toss, and poetry challenges, are held along the shore. Entry to the event requires no admission, but cruise tickets must be purchased separately.

 

 

On March 3, a Lantern Festival celebration is held at Taiping Old Street, Xinjin District. The event features a lantern wonderland, intangible cultural heritage performances, interactive folk custom activities, a God of Wealth parade, and other activities.

 

Edited by Zhang Yuanlin

Source: Home in Chengdu