From Lion Dances To Lanterns: Chinese New Year’s Rich Culture

1 / 10

Chinese New Year, also known as Lunar New Year or Spring Festival, is one of the most significant celebrations in Chinese culture, marked by various customs and traditions that vary by region. The festival lasts for 15 days, culminating in the Lantern Festival. Here are some key traditions associated with this vibrant celebration.

2 / 10

The New Year’s Eve dinner is the most important meal for Chinese families. Normally, this is the family reunion dinner, especially for those with family members away from home.

3 / 10

Fireworks are traditionally used to scare away evil spirits and the mythical monster Nian, believed to bring misfortune. Celebrations often start with fireworks at midnight on New Year’s Eve and continue throughout the festival.

4 / 10

Shou Sui refers to the practice of staying awake after the New Year’s Eve dinner to fend off evil spirits. This tradition has evolved, with some families only staying awake until after midnight

5 / 10

Red envelopes filled with money are given to children and younger family members as a symbol of good luck and prosperity. The amount varies, but the act of giving is believed to ward off evil spirits.

6 / 10

Cleaning the house before the New Year signifies the removal of bad luck from the previous year and making room for good fortune in the upcoming year. However, it is considered bad luck to clean on New Year's Day itself.

7 / 10

Homes are adorned with red decorations, such as couplets and lanterns, which symbolize good luck and happiness. The color red is prominent throughout the festivities due to its auspicious connotations

8 / 10

Many families honor their ancestors during this time by preparing offerings and setting extra places at the dinner table as a sign of respect and remembrance

9 / 10

The festival concludes with the Lantern Festival on the 15th day, where families display lanterns and enjoy sweet rice balls (tangyuan), symbolizing family unity

10 / 10

These traditional dances are performed to ward off evil spirits and bring good luck. Accompanied by loud drums, cymbals, and firecrackers, the performances are a vibrant highlight of the celebrations.