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Looking for a fun, stress-free way to celebrate the Mid-Autumn Festival with your little ones? Follow our simple step-by-step guide to create a custom Zhong Bao Bao (众宝宝) lantern using basic household supplies and a safe, child-friendly torchlight.
By Sharon Poh
Historically a traditional harvest celebration, the Mid-Autumn Festival in Singapore (also commonly known as the Mooncake Festival to locals) has evolved into a cherished annual event that multi-generational families eagerly look forward to. Popular local pastimes during the Mooncake Festival include moon gazing (赏月), savouring mooncakes (品月饼), and carrying lanterns (提灯笼). Falling on 25 September this year, it is the perfect occasion to spend quality bonding time with your loved ones. If you have yet to purchase your children’s lanterns, why not try a fun family craft instead? Follow our simple step-by-step guide to create your very own custom DIY Zhong Bao Bao (众宝宝) lantern!
Preparation Time: 30 – 45 minutes
Materials Required:
- 2 paper plates
- Pop Bazic 6.75" Scissors
- Max HD-11FNL Stapler
- UHU Stic (SpongeBob Limited Edition)
- Zebra X Sanrio Sarasa Clip gel pens
- Energizer Find Me Keychain Light
- Ribbon
- Wooden stick/ chopstick
- Zhong Bao Bao print-out
Step-by-Step Guide
Step 1: Prep the Elements
- Cut one paper plate in half using Pop Bazic 6.75" Scissors, leaving you with a semi-circle (Part A).
- Cut out the flat circular centre from the second paper plate, leaving you a donut-shaped outer rim (Part B).
Step 2: Prepare the Mascot
- Print Zhong Bao Bao mascot template out on plain white A4 paper or translucent vellum paper.
- Carefully cut along the outer boundary lines of the mascot shape.
Step 3: Assemble the Parts
- Paste the cut-out mascot onto the front of Part B using UHU Stic (SpongeBob Limited Edition). Its strong adhesiveness and smooth, mess-free application ensure that even young children can manage this step effortlessly.
- Affix the semi-circle (Part A) behind the donut rim using Max HD-11FNL Stapler. Thanks to its child-safe, flat-clinch technology, the staple tips bend entirely flat inward to prevent accidental finger pricks while keeping the frame sturdy. Ensure the bottom curve is completely secure; it will act as a pocket to safely hold your light source.
Step 4: Unleash the Creativity
- Have your child write down their festive well-wishes or decorate the lantern using the limited edition Zebra X Sanrio Sarasa Clip gel pens. The water-based gel ink flows effortlessly without requiring hard pressure, and its quick-drying nature prevents messy smudges.
Step 5: Illuminate the Lantern
- Pop in the bright and portable Energizer Find Me Keychain Light inside the bottom pocket. With its integrated Apple Find My technology, your little ones will never lose their custom lanterns in the dark!
Step 6: Showcase the Masterpiece
- Finally, attach the ribbon to the top of your lantern so that your child can proudly carry their custom Zhong Bao Bao lantern with a stick!
Now that your child’s unique Zhong Bao Bao lantern is ready, it is time to head out for an unforgettable evening under the full moon. If you are looking to busk in the festivities, plan a trip down to the Gardens by the Bay Mid-Autumn Festival to enjoy the spectacular light displays and feast on the delicious food and beverages at the bustling marketplace.
Another great option is the annual Mid-Autumn Family FUN (MAFF) event co-organised by the Singapore Chinese Cultural Centre (SCCC) and Singapore Chinese Orchestra (SCO), featuring interactive lantern walks and hands-on workshops. Plus, you can even utilise your SG Culture Pass credits to offset eligible programmes.
If you prefer a more intimate and serene family bonding time, skip the large crowds and explore Singapore’s beautiful park connectors. You can even transform your scenic lantern walk into a gamified adventure by completing exploratory quests on CrowdTaskSG to earn rewards!
Have an absolute blast this Mooncake Festival!
