Lunar Lantern Lights Up for 2025 Welcoming the Rabbit

LEGO's 2025 Lunar New Year (Year of the Snake) Collection: A Detailed Look at the Trotting Lantern

LEGO is celebrating the Year of the Snake with three new sets. This review focuses on the most elaborate: a meticulously detailed replica of a traditional trotting lantern (#80116).

The lantern's exterior is incredibly ornate. Intricate details adorn every surface, from hanging red lanterns to gold accents and a captivating cloud-and-sky scene depicted on the walls.

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Construction is a layered process, adding details upon details, creating a satisfying building experience reminiscent of the now-retired LEGO Carousel.

The lantern incorporates a mechanism inspired by historical trotting lanterns. A rotating rod activates a light brick, projecting a rotating image onto the lantern's side. While the advertised wall projection feature is somewhat underwhelming, the effect on the lantern itself is charming.

The true marvel lies within. Opening the upper tier reveals three miniature dioramas: a dumpling stall, a decorations stall, and a shadow puppet theater. This clever design uses visual depth to surprise and delight. The set includes five minifigures (one with a snake costume), dumplings, a red envelope, a shadow puppet, and chopsticks.

The set's value depends on your priorities. While the light-up mechanism isn't groundbreaking, the aesthetic beauty and hidden dioramas make it a stunning Lunar New Year centerpiece. Despite its 9+ age rating, the complexity suggests it's more suitable for older builders.

The LEGO Trotting Lantern (#80116), containing 1295 pieces, retails for $129.99 and is available at Amazon and the LEGO Store.