What is Chinese New Year?
The Spring Festival is the most important festival for Chinese people all over the world. It is also called Lunar New Year or simply Chinese new year, which falls from January to February each year, according to the lunar calendar.
The Chinese New Year is respected everywhere around the world, with many countries closing their doors and giving their employees time off from work. But have you ever wondered why you can sit at home and take a break during this occasion? Have you ever asked what exactly is Chinese New Year about and why people celebrate it?
In case you're interested in knowing, we discuss the interesting history, celebrations, purpose, and activities that the Chinese New Year has in store in this article.
When is Chinese New Year?
The dates vary every year due to different calendars used in various regions of China and even outside countries like Singapore, Malaysia, Vietnam, etc. However, it always starts from the first day of spring (the first solar term) that comes around late January into early February.
The festival also coincides with the lunar new year, which is based on a lunar calendar. This means that the date of Chinese New Year changes from year to year, as it follows the moon’s cycle.
What Happens During Chinese New Year?
During the 15 day period of the Chinese New Year celebration, there are many activities held by individuals as well as governments including giving alms to poor families throughout streets, holding traditional performances such as the lion dance, visiting relatives/friends with gift items like a red envelope containing money (hong bao), and many more.
The Spring Festival is a time for a family reunion, where people visit their families or host them in return to catch up with each other’s lives during the year. It is also an occasion for Chinese communities living abroad to get together at festive dinners among friends, relatives, and neighbors.
In addition, it's a chance that everyone gets off from work or school to participate in preparations and family activities throughout the past one month before this festival starts. The preparations include making red envelopes containing money, buying food items such as meat dumplings, sweet rice balls, fruits, etc. for the coming 15 days, and so on.
Why People Celebrate Chinese New Year
The celebration of the Chinese New Year goes back centuries and is steeped in tradition. It is a time to reflect on the past year and to usher in good luck and fortune for the year ahead.
The Spring Festival is a time of joy and family reunion for Chinese people all over the world. It is a celebration of culture, tradition, and good fortune.
How You Can Celebrate Chinese New Year If You're Not from China
If you are not from China, there are still many ways for you to celebrate the Chinese New Year. You can join in the festivities by learning about the traditions and customs associated with this holiday.
You can also purchase red envelopes online or at Asian supermarkets and fill them with money to give as gifts to friends and family. Or, why not cook up a traditional Chinese feast for your loved ones? There are many recipes online that will help you get started.
The Spring Festival is a time of joy and celebration for people of all cultures. Join in the fun by learning more about the traditions and customs of Chinese New year!
Chinese New Year is just a couple of weeks away, but China is already beginning preparations to celebrate it as early as now. You too can enjoy the activities that Chinese New Year has in store! From the GAS family to yours, we wish you a Happy Chinese New Year! Gong Xi Fa Cai!