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 (#80116). This 1295-piece set, priced at $129.99, is available now at Amazon and the LEGO Store. Unlike previous Lunar New Year sets like the 2021 Spring Festival garden or the 2024 Auspicious Dragon, this lantern offers a multi-layered building experience and hidden surprises.

The lantern's exterior is incredibly detailed, boasting red lanterns, gold detailing, and intricately designed walls depicting clouds and rocks. Construction involves a layered approach, starting with the core lantern and progressively adding decorative elements, creating a satisfying and rewarding build. This intricate detail evokes the same delightful anticipation found in sets like the now-retired LEGO Carousel.

Inspired by Han Dynasty lanterns, the set includes a light brick mechanism that illuminates the lantern's interior and projects a rotating image. While the projected image is not perfectly sharp, the overall effect is charming. More impressive is the lantern's upper section, which opens to reveal three miniature scenes: a dumpling stall, a decorations stall, and a shadow puppet theater. Five minifigures, including one with a snake costume, and various accessories complete the set.

The set's value proposition hinges on the buyer's priorities. While the light-up mechanism might not justify the price alone, the aesthetic appeal and hidden dioramas make it a captivating and visually stunning piece. Despite the 9+ age rating, the intricacy suggests a more challenging build suitable for older enthusiasts.

This LEGO Trotting Lantern is a beautiful and intricate celebration of the Lunar New Year, offering a blend of impressive design, hidden details, and a unique building experience. Consider this set if you appreciate intricate LEGO builds and aesthetically pleasing models that offer more than meets the eye. For more LEGO recommendations, explore our selections of the best LEGO sets overall, the best Marvel LEGO sets, and the most expensive LEGO sets.