Lunar New Year: A Bittersweet Reminder

By Ai Yi W

This year’s Lunar New Year celebrations have been eagerly anticipated by many Chinese people, as the Year of the Rabbit begins, especially as many are finally able to travel back home to visit their loved ones, now that restrictions for Covid-19 are mostly over. It has been three years since these Covid-19 restrictions limited the annual celebrations, which has led many to anticipate the event this year.

However, a sudden rise in cases in the recent weeks have smothered the holiday spirit for people in China. The traditional red colour –representing prosperity, luck, and joy – is unmissable at this time of year, as families hang decorations to bring in the luck of the new year, but unfortunately, white, has also become especially prominent. White is the colour of mourning in China, and amongst the red decorations, it has become very visible. The country remains torn between families eager to gather and celebrate, while others mourn loved ones, and pray for recovery for sick relatives.

For some, Lunar New Year has become a bittersweet reminder, as the number of empty chairs becomes apparent for all they have lost over the past few years. Nonetheless, the majority remain happy to be able to finally celebrate again and reunite with friends and family, despite the difficult circumstances.

Happy Lunar New Year to everyone who celebrates!