 Although they were discontinued after the devastation of the Anshi Rebellion ( 755 – 763 ) during the Tang dynasty , lavish Chinese carnivals were revived and once again celebrated during the Song dynasty . Chinese carnival celebrations were held nationwide when the emperor felt a great occasion warranted a grand display of his benevolence and generosity , such as renowned military victories , abundant harvests after long droughts or famines , the granting of grand amnesties by the throne , sacrifices to deities , the installation of a crown prince , marriages within the imperial family , etc . 
