The large glowing lotus flower overhead is one of many dozens of silk fabric lanterns at the North Carolina Chinese Lantern Festival at Koka Booth Amphitheater in Cary. Lanterns are hand crafted by artisans by stretching the fabric over steel frames and illuminating with hundreds of LED lights. Lantern-making is an ancient art that began during the Han Dynasty in 206 BC to 220 AD, and a central part of new year celebrations to symbolize respect and prosperity.

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