8 Things to Know About Chinese New Year
Chinese New Year, also known as the Spring Festival, is the most important holiday in the Chinese calendar. It is a time for family reunions, feasting, and celebrating the coming of spring. Here are eight things you should know about Chinese New Year:
1. It is a lunar holiday. Chinese New Year is based on the Chinese lunisolar calendar, which means that it falls on a different day each year. The holiday typically begins on the first new moon of the Chinese calendar, which falls sometime between late January and mid-February.
2. It lasts for 15 days. The Chinese New Year celebration actually lasts for 15 days, from the first day of the new moon to the 15th day, which is known as the Lantern Festival.
3. It is a time for family reunions. Chinese New Year is a time for families to come together and celebrate. Many people travel long distances to be with their loved ones for the holiday.
4. There are many traditional customs associated with Chinese New Year. Some of the most popular customs include:
* Eating dumplings
* Watching dragon and lion dances
* Setting off fireworks
* Giving red envelopes filled with money to children
5. It is a time for feasting. Chinese New Year is a time to feast on delicious food. Some of the most popular dishes include:
* Steamed fish
* Roast duck
* Spring rolls
* Nian gao (sticky rice cake)
6. It is a time for celebration. Chinese New Year is a time to celebrate the coming of spring and the new year. People often exchange gifts, sing songs, and dance.
7. It is a time for reflection. Chinese New Year is also a time for reflection on the past year and making plans for the future. Many people make resolutions for the new year.
8. It is a time for hope and renewal. Chinese New Year is a time to hope for a bright and prosperous future. People often decorate their homes with red lanterns and other symbols of good luck.