I made my second trip to the State Fair of Texas, but this time it wasn't to sample the fried food. I spent an evening viewing the Chinese Lantern Festival which has been set up in the lagoon area of Fair Park. Maybe you've seen photos of the brightly lit lanterns or if you've already paid a visit to the fair, perhaps you've walked by, but if you haven't been inside the exhibit then you are seriously in for a treat. Not only are there amazing lantern structures composed of silk, there are also massive sculptures created from items such as Chinese place settings and antique medicine bottles filled with colored water. These delicate forms of art are intricate in design and massive in stature--really, really impressive.

Some of the displays are culturally-based and tell stories and some are just for fun, but all are a delight. This is a great place for families and fun for anyone that likes to learn about other cultures and traditions.

You can read more about the Chinese Lantern Festival here: http://chineselanternfestival.com/