Chinese New Year
February 10, Saturday
The history of the celebration goes back over 4,000 years. Initially, it was an agricultural festival associated with the end of the winter season and the beginning of farming activities. Legends connect Chinese New Year with the mythical creature Nian, which would appear at the end of the year to attack villages. People realized that Nian was afraid of the color red, loud noises, and fire, so they began using fireworks, firecrackers, and red decorations to scare it away. These traditions have persisted to this day.
Chinese New Year is not only a celebration of the new year but also a time for strengthening family bonds, honoring ancestors, and praying for future well-being. It carries a message of new life, hope, prosperity, and harmony.
The holiday impacts the economy and culture not only in China but also in many countries around the world where Chinese communities live, making it an important part of global cultural tradition.
Officially, Chinese New Year is celebrated for 15 days, starting from the new moon. It concludes with the Lantern Festival, during which people take to the streets with lit lanterns, symbolizing the end of winter and the arrival of spring. On the last day, parades with dances, lanterns, and fireworks are held.
Interesting Traditions in Different Countries:
China. In China, the holiday is celebrated everywhere, with massive parades in big cities, grand fireworks displays, and festivals.
Taiwan. Here, vibrant light shows, lantern parades, and cultural performances are organized.
Singapore and Malaysia. In countries with large Chinese communities, Chinese New Year is also celebrated with grandeur, including parades, dances, and food festivals.
Korea and Vietnam. The holiday is known as Seollal in Korea and Tet in Vietnam, where traditions related to the lunar new year are also observed.
Chinese New Year in other years
- 2022 February 1, Tuesday
- 2023 January 22, Sunday
- 2025 January 29, Wednesday