The Lantern

A lantern is a light you can carry around. Long ago, lanterns held candles or burning oil. A glass or paper case kept the flame safe from wind. Today, many lanterns use batteries or gas to make light.

Lanterns in History

Lanterns are very old inventions. People in ancient China, Rome, and Egypt all used them. Sailors hung lanterns on ships to see at night. Townspeople carried lanterns to light their way home. Before street lights, lanterns helped keep cities safer after dark.

Lanterns Today

Modern lanterns come in many kinds. Camping lanterns light up whole tents. Paper lanterns are used for decorations at parties and festivals. Some lanterns float up into the sky using hot air from a little flame. Pumpkin lanterns, called jack-o'-lanterns, are carved for Halloween.

Fun Facts

• A lighthouse is like a giant lantern that helps guide ships to shore.
• In China, people celebrate a special Lantern Festival every year.
• Fireflies are sometimes called lightning bugs or natural lanterns.

Did You Know?

Chinese sky lanterns can float hundreds of feet into the air, glowing brightly as they rise.