Chinese Lantern & Folk Festival Coming to Fountain Hills 　　A colorful and unique Chinese tradition is coming to Arizona for the first time.
　　The inaugural Chinese Lantern & Folk Festival will be held Jan. 24 ?Feb. 2 along the lake in Fountain Hills. Coinciding with the Chinese New Year celebration of the Year of the Horse, the festival will feature dozens of large, richly-colored lit displays made from special silk material depicting animals, characters, gods, angels, flora and structures. The displays, which will be created by two dozen Chinese artisans, become a stunning kaleidoscope of colorful lights and visuals. A number of displays measure up to 60 feet long and 40 feet wide. The festival will also feature cultural dancing, puppets, food, Tai Chi and Kung Fu demonstrations, handmade crafts and music.
　　Festival times will be Monday through Friday from 3 to 10 p.m., and Saturday and Sunday noon to 10 p.m. Tickets for adults will be $12, and $8 for children 5-12. Both adults and children will receive a free gift. Children under 5 are free. Business sponsorships are available for displays from $1,000 to $10,000.
　　Modern lantern festivals have been held around the world in places like Vancouver, Canada, Auckland, New Zealand and Singapore. Lantern festivals are held in a few locations throughout the U.S. The first lantern festival began during China抯 Han dynasty (A.D. 25 – A.D. 220.)
　　揟he Chinese Lantern and Folk Festival will bring the colorful and historic Eastern culture to America,?said Festival Director Cathy Hum. 揟his event will showcase the creative art of lantern making, along with featuring the Chinese arts and way of life.?BR>揟he Town of Fountain Hills it thrilled to host the very first Chinese Lantern & Folk Festival,?said Fountain Hills Mayor Linda Kavanagh. 揙ur town will be the meeting place for the colorful Eastern traditions and our American traditions. It is also another opportunity to show the world what Fountain Hills has to offer in both its residents, its way of life and our area抯 beautiful scenery.?BR>　　For more information, call Festival Director Cathy Hum at (623)521-8188 or visit ucorganization@gmail.com.