Happy Chinese New Year

The Chinese New Year is the biggest celebration in China and is honored in many parts of the Western world. It is also known as the Spring Festival because it begins at the start of Spring; the celebration is based on the legend of the beast Nian, a monster that would prey on the people the night before the beginning of a new year and eat them whole. However, an immortal god was able to subdue Nian and save the people from pain and suffering in the oncoming year. The Chinese New Year honors this conquest, and the celebration is often a celebration to commemorate the survival of the Nian.

EARLY TRADITIONS OF THE CHINESE NEW YEAR
Ancient traditions to honor the Chinese New Year involve buying and exchanging presents, decorating the homes with handmade lanterns and decorations, and covering doors and windowpanes in red, the color that symbolizes wealth, happiness and longevity. Early traditions recognized the Chinese New Year as a month-long celebration, and many people would stay up through the night to clean up their home to ward off evil spirits and enjoy the company of family and friends.



One of the most important ancient rituals is the exchange of money in red envelopes. This custom is known as ‘Hong Bao’ which means ‘red packet.’ These envelopes are given to children and unmarried adults by married couples and the elders of the family; the family visits each other’s homes to give these envelopes, and wish everyone a Happy New Year.
The Festival of Lanterns is another tradition that is honored throughout the Far East. This festival is a grand celebration with lights, dancing, parades and the presentation of colorful paper lanterns. People dress up in red and gold for this big celebration, and may exchange small plants and flowers to bring good luck.