New LEGO Trotting Lantern food element could be handy for more sets

A new food element included in the upcoming 80116 Trotting Lantern could be a handy addition in more potential future LEGO set releases.

We got our first official look today at a trio of new LEGO Chinese New Year sets that have been confirmed for launch on January 1, 2025. On that date, 80116 Trotting Lantern, 80117 Good Fortune and 40813 Lucky Cat will all be released, alongside many other upcoming LEGO builds.

Of the three LEGO Chinese New Year models, 80116 Trotting Lantern is by far the largest and most detailed, coming in at 1,295 pieces. We’ve already spotted one element that may well hint at a possible future Classic Space minifigure colour, while one new part introduced in the set could also come in handy for potential future LEGO releases.

Inside 80116 Trotting Lantern are three festive scenes, one of which is listed as being a buildable food stall, complete with minifigure patrons. In addition, customers are shown to  be carrying bowls and trays complete with a new dumpling piece.

The new food element may be making its debut in 80116 Trotting Lantern, but it’s not hard to imagine the part popping up in other LEGO models or themes such as NINJAGO at some point. A change of colour and some creative licence could see the dumpling used in all kinds of innovative ways, now what LEGO designers have access to it.

You’ll be able to get your hands on the new dumpling element when 80116 Trotting Lantern is released on January 1, 2025, with the LEGO Chinese New Year set priced at £89.99 / $129.99 / €99.99.

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