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

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

LEGO continues its Lunar New Year tradition with three exciting 2025 sets celebrating the Year of the Snake. This review focuses on the most elaborate offering: a meticulously crafted replica of a traditional trotting lantern.

The Lantern's Exquisite Detailing

Before diving into the build, let's appreciate the lantern's stunning exterior. Every detail is exquisitely rendered, from the hanging red lanterns to the ornate gold accents and the cloud-and-rock-framed sky depicted on the lantern's walls.

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A Layered Building Experience

Constructing the lantern is a multi-layered process, starting with the core structure and progressively adding intricate details. This layered approach offers a unique sense of anticipation and satisfaction, reminiscent of the now-retired LEGO Carousel.

Mechanical Features and Projection Capabilities

Inspired by historical trotting lanterns powered by oil lamps, the LEGO version incorporates a clever mechanism. A rotating rod activates a light brick, illuminating a clear piece with a black-lined image, projecting it onto the lantern's side. While the packaging highlights wall projection, the effect proved blurry and less impressive in practice.

Hidden Dioramas and Minifigures

The lantern's upper section opens to reveal three charming miniature scenes: a dumpling stall, a decorations stall, and a shadow puppet theater. This cleverly concealed element adds a delightful surprise. The set includes five minifigures, one with a snake costume, and various accessories such as dumplings, a red envelope, a shadow puppet, and chopsticks.

Final Verdict

The appeal of this set hinges on individual preferences. While the mechanical light and rotation might not fully justify the price, the stunning aesthetics and hidden dioramas make it a captivating representation of Lunar New Year. Its intricate detail and hidden features make it a luxurious and rewarding build experience, surpassing its 9+ age rating.

The LEGO Trotting Lantern (#80116), featuring 1295 pieces, is available now at Amazon and the LEGO Store for $129.99. For more LEGO recommendations, explore our guides on the best LEGO sets overall, the best Marvel LEGO sets, and the most expensive LEGO sets.