The Chinese Lunar New Year, also known as the Spring Festival or Chūn Jié (春节) in Chinese, marks the beginning of the lunar new year in the Chinese calendar. The date of the Chinese New Year varies each year, as it is based on the lunar calendar, and it typically falls between January 21 and February 20.
In 2024, the Chinese Lunar New Year's Day is on 10 February , which marks the beginning of the Year of the Dragon according to the Chinese zodiac. The Chinese New Year is a significant traditional festival celebrated by Chinese communities worldwide and is known for its vibrant cultural customs, festive decorations, family reunions, and various traditional activities.
Key features of the Chinese Lunar New Year celebration include:
Reunion Dinners: Families gather for a special reunion dinner on New Year's Eve, symbolizing unity and prosperity.
Lion and Dragon Dances: Colorful lion and dragon dances are performed to bring good luck and ward off evil spirits. People often participate in or watch these lively performances.
Fireworks and Firecrackers: The use of fireworks and firecrackers is a traditional way to ward off evil spirits and welcome the new year with joyous noise.
Red Decorations: Red is considered an auspicious color in Chinese culture, symbolizing good fortune and happiness. Red decorations, clothing, and envelopes with money (red packets or "hongbao") are prevalent.
Visiting Relatives and Friends: People visit each other's homes to offer New Year greetings and exchange well-wishes for the coming year.
Traditional Foods: Special New Year dishes, such as dumplings and fish, are prepared and enjoyed during the celebrations.
Temple Visits: Many people visit temples to pray for good fortune and make offerings to deities.
Cleaning and Decoration: Homes are thoroughly cleaned before the New Year to sweep away bad luck, and they are adorned with festive decorations.
The Chinese Lunar New Year is one of the most important and widely celebrated festivals in Chinese culture, and it is observed not only in China but also by Chinese communities around the world. The celebration lasts for about 15 days, concluding with the Lantern Festival on the 15th day of the lunar new year.
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