Chinese New Year, also known as Spring Festival or Lunar New Year, is the grandest festvial in China, with at least 7 day long holiday. As the most colorful annual event, the traditional CNY celcbration lasts longer, up to two weeks, and the climax arrives around the Luna New Year’s Eve.China during this period is dominated by iconic red lanterns, loud fireworks, massive banquets and prades, and the festival even triggers exuberant celebrations across the globe.
2019- The Year of the PIG
In 2019 Chinese New Year Festival falls on FEB. 5th. It is the year of the PIG according to the Chinese zodiac, which features a 12-year cycle with each year represented by aspecific animal.
It is time for family reunion, like Christmas in Western countries, Chinese New Year is a time to be home with family, chatting, drinking, cooking and enjoying a hearty meal together.
Why is it called Spring Festival?
The festival data is in January or February, around the Chinese solar term the “Beginning of Spring”, so it is also named the “Spring Festival”.
How do Chinese people celebrate the festival?
When all streets and lanes are decorated with vibrant red lanterns and colorful lights, the Lunar New Year is approaching.
After half a month’s busy time with a house spring- clean and holiday shopping, the festivities kick off on the New Year’s Eve, and last 15 days, until the full moon arrives with the Lantern Festival. Scroll down and let’s look through the core traditions and practices of the Chinese New Year.
Activities of Chinese New Year:
1. House Cleaning and Decorating
2. Family Reunion Dinner- New Year’s Eve
3. Giving Red Envelopes
4. Send Greetings and Red Envelopes through Wechat
5. Watching CCTV
6. Setting off Firecrackers at 0:00
7. Half-month Visiting Relatives- from one family to another
8. Folk Shows and Temple Fairs