The Chinese New Year is a significant celebration among Chinese people and is often celebrated with family members gathered around the house.
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Whether you're a seasoned veteran or just curious about this cultural phenomenon, Chinese New Year is one of the most popular community celebrations in the world.
Every year during the Chinese festival, people decorate their doors and windows to embody good fortune and happiness. The red lanterns represent longevity and wealth.
Even if you aren't celebrating, you'll hear various conversations and singing, and it's nearly impossible to miss some of the noise during this event.
It's a time to celebrate, eat tasty foods, and give gifts. From a celebration to welcome the new year to a time for a family reunion, it's quite an event.
However, it's also important to be mindful of what you do and don't do during the new year.
If you want to make your new year an experience to remember, here are some helpful suggestions that will get you on your way!
Chinese New Year - Spring Festival
The Chinese New Year is officially known as the Spring Festival. During this Spring Festival, families come together, eat, drink, and celebrate.
The new year is the most important festival for Chinese people.
When shops start selling their Chinese New Year goods, restaurants promote their menus, and shopping malls have festive performances, you can feel the season's mood.
It's the season of new beginnings and good fortune! Firecrackers, such as the ones heard during the holiday, are meant to bring happiness and good luck during the festive season.
Although the holiday can change dates every other year, most people will celebrate the new year on January 31. Because this marks the beginning of the lunar calendar, it usually falls between January 21 and February 20.
The Chinese have a unique calendar based on their zodiac signs. Twelve animals identify each year, and they symbolize how the year went for you.
The animals include the Rat, Ox, Tiger, Rabbit, Dragon, Snake, Horse, Goat, Monkey, Rooster, Dog, and Pig.
Things to Consider
Sweeping Floors
Floor sweeping is a no-no on the first day of the new year. Because when you clean your house, you will sweep away all your luck, and the Feng Shui of the home will be off.
Washing Hair
If you're planning to attend a family reunion dinner or any other important event, it's best to cleanse your hair before the big day.
Consequently, there is a belief that you'll wash away your luck if you wash your hair on the first day of the new year.
Fresh Air
There is a belief that fresh air will bring great luck to your household. So it’s time to open the windows wide, say goodbye to the stale air, and hello to the fresh new year.
Decorate House
Chinese New Year is the most important holiday in the Chinese calendar.
One of the many things that makes this celebration special is its various traditions, including colorful decorations and wearing red during the first two days to reflect their mood, which is auspicious.
Candies and Desserts
You will have a sweeter year ahead if you eat more sweet foods like candies and cookies. So every household you visit, there is sure to be something sweet on the table!
Family Reunion Celebration
What's the new year without a big dinner and party? The holiday festival is a family reunion celebration.
It's exciting to think of all the memories you can make with family and friends during the festivities. The food, the clothing, and the memories will last a lifetime.
Eating and drinking are just the beginning of the celebrations. If you want to go the extra mile and celebrate, understand the origin of your family.
Family reunions are the time to understand the history of your ancestors and their way of living.
Remember the Golden Rule "Greetings are simple; acts of kindness are complex." The Chinese New Year is all about happiness, kindness, and love.
Food Celebration
In traditional Chinese fashion, ringing in the new year is a time-honored tradition where food plays a big part.
On this particular occasion, make sure you add some authentic Chinese Festive Foods to the menu.
Many foods are considered lucky or symbolically significant, and the qualifications vary.
For instance, offering a whole chicken during the festivities can be seen as a promise that the family will remain together during the year.
Also, noodles are a traditional food of the festivities. Moreover, this food symbolizes the long life of the person eating it.
Gift Celebration
One of the best gifts you can give to any person is a gift basket. A gift basket combines different types of food, drinks, and fruits or flowers. It's the perfect way to show your love for someone.
If your loved one or friend has children, all in all, it is wise to prepare a red envelope for each kid to show your love. Red envelopes represent "luck" money.
By the same token, if your friend has a new baby, you could buy a baby gift. Or if they moved into a new house, buy some beautiful decorations for their living room.
All Things Considered
Let's talk about some of the points that this post has brought up.
The Chinese New Year is a celebration with many traditions and customs. Family members gather around the house for a great meal, chatting and socializing.
Loud noises like fireworks or firecrackers are not missed at this celebration, as they have been significant parts of these celebrations for centuries.
And, to celebrate the new year, get ready to offer white flowers and red envelopes.
Moreover, red is the color of good luck and the good things in life! As it's also a sign of loyalty and honesty.
People visit their favorite local cultural communities, pick up items from markets, and shop for traditional goodies. It's a time to connect with your loved ones and enjoy all the festivities!
Finally, Chinese New Year's traditions are rich with culture and diversity, making the celebrations a time for family bonding. Have a safe and festive holiday.