China's new year consecutiv
You're referring to the Chinese New Year, also known as the Spring Festival!
In China, the Chinese New Year is a 15-day celebration that marks the beginning of the new year on the traditional Chinese calendar. The exact dates of the Chinese New Year vary each year, but it usually falls between January 21 and February 20.
Here are some interesting facts about the Chinese New Year:
- Animal zodiac: The Chinese New Year is associated with the 12 animals of the Chinese zodiac, which are: Rat, Ox (or Cow), Tiger, Rabbit (or Hare), Dragon, Snake, Horse, Goat (or Sheep), Monkey, Rooster, Dog, and Pig (or Boar).
- New Year's Eve dinner: The traditional Chinese New Year's Eve dinner is a big deal! Families gather together to share a meal, usually featuring dishes like dumplings, fish, niangao (sticky rice cake), and sweet treats like nian gao (sticky rice cake with sweet fillings).
- Red decorations: Red is a significant color during the Chinese New Year, symbolizing good luck and prosperity. Homes, streets, and public spaces are often decorated with red lanterns, couplets, and paper cutouts.
- Fireworks and firecrackers: Fireworks and firecrackers are a big part of the Chinese New Year celebrations, believed to scare away evil spirits and bring good luck.
- Family reunions: The Chinese New Year is a time for family reunions, with many people traveling long distances to be with their loved ones.
- Gift-giving: Giving gifts is a significant tradition during the Chinese New Year. Common gifts include red envelopes filled with money, fruit, and sweets.
- Lion and dragon dances: Lion and dragon dances are a popular form of entertainment during the Chinese New Year, believed to bring good luck and fortune.
- Traditional activities: Other traditional activities include playing mahjong, watching traditional Chinese operas, and participating in cultural performances.
The Chinese New Year is a time of great celebration and joy in China and around the world, with many people of Chinese descent and those interested in Chinese culture participating in the festivities. Gong Xi Fa Cai!