We Build the LEGO Trotting Lantern, a 2025 Lunar New Year Celebration

LEGO Unveils Exquisite Trotting Lantern for 2025 Lunar New Year

LEGO is celebrating the Year of the Snake (2025) with three new sets, including a stunning replica of a traditional trotting lantern (set #80116). This intricate model, reviewed here, offers far more than initially meets the eye.

The lantern's exterior is lavishly detailed. Every surface boasts decorative elements: red lanterns hanging from supports, gold accents on the walls, and exquisitely rendered sky and cloud scenes framed by rock formations.

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Construction is a layered process, adding detail upon detail, creating a sense of anticipation and rewarding discovery reminiscent of the now-retired LEGO Carousel.

The lantern incorporates a mechanism inspired by historical trotting lanterns. A light brick illuminates a clear piece with a black-lined image, projecting it onto the lantern's side. Rotating a rod animates the projection. While the advertised wall projection is blurry, the in-lantern effect is more successful.

The lantern's upper section opens to reveal three charming miniature scenes: a dumpling stall, a decorations stall, and a shadow puppet theater. Five minifigures, including one with a snake headdress, and various accessories complete the set.

The set's value depends on your priorities. While the light-up, rotating feature may not justify the price alone, the aesthetic beauty and intricately detailed hidden scenes make it a captivating Lunar New Year celebration. Rated for ages 9+, its complexity suggests a more mature build.

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