CHINESE NEW YEAR

Chinese New Year, also called the Lunar New Year, is an annual festival in China (and Chinese communities) that begins with the new moon, and occurs sometime between January 21st and February 20th. Celebrations will last until the following full moon.

There are many legends that lead to the origins of the New Year. My favourite legend says; there once was a monster named Nian (Year) who would attack villagers at the beginning of each New Year. The monster was said to be afraid of bright lights, loud noises and even the colour red, so these things were used to scare him away. The celebrations held are to usher out the old year and bring forth luck and prosperity for the coming year, therefore they will include firecrackers, fireworks and red decorations. Young people are gifted ‘lucky’ money in red envelopes by their elders. It is also a time to visit family members, feast, and honour relatives that have died.

Another Chinese New Year tradition is to clean your home thoroughly, to rid the house of any lingering bad luck. Some people will prepare and enjoy special foods on certain days during the celebrations. The special foods all have their own symbolism. These are just a few; Fish – an increase in prosperity Dumplings and spring rolls – wealth Longevity noodles – happiness and longevity Good fortune fruit – fullness and wealth Tang Yuan (sweet rice balls) – family togetherness Niangao (glutinous rice cake) – a higher income or a higher position. The last event during the festival is called the Lantern festival, during which people will hang glowing lanterns in the temples, or carry them during a night-time parade. As the dragon is a symbol of good fortune, the dragon will be the highlight of the festival celebrations.

This year, Chinese New Year will begin on February 1st and is the year of the tiger. The tiger is said to be a symbol of strength and braveness. You will find many Chinese items, such as clothing, displaying an image of the tiger for good luck. There are 12 Chinese zodiac signs, each a different animal, and this changes every New Year.

All over the world, celebrations for the lunar New Year will take place, from New York, Manchester, Kuala Lumpur, Paris and so many more. Why not take a look and see if there are any festivities happening near you? The dragon dances are well worth a watch.

Wishing you all happiness and prosperity.

Chinese New Year 2022