China new year 2019
The Chinese New Year, also known as the Spring Festival, is a significant traditional holiday in China and other countries with Chinese populations. Here are some key facts about the Chinese New Year in 2019:
Date: February 5, 2019 (Tuesday)
Animal: The Year of the Pig (also known as the Boar)
Zodiac Sign: The Pig is the 12th animal in the 12-year Chinese zodiac cycle. People born in the Year of the Pig are believed to be gentle, compassionate, and optimistic.
Celebrations: The Chinese New Year is a 15-day celebration, with the first day being the most important. It's a time for family reunions, traditional foods, decorations, and cultural activities.
Traditions:
- Cleaning the house: Before the New Year, people typically clean their homes to sweep away bad luck and make room for good fortune.
- Wearing new clothes: It's customary to wear new clothes on the first day of the New Year to symbolize a fresh start.
- Giving and receiving red envelopes: Adults give red envelopes filled with money to children and seniors as a symbol of good luck and prosperity.
- Eating traditional foods: Popular dishes include dumplings, fish, niangao (sticky rice cake), and sweet treats like nian gao (sticky rice cake with sweet fillings).
- Fireworks and lion dances: Fireworks and lion dances are common during the Chinese New Year to scare away evil spirits and bring good luck.
Interesting facts:
- Largest human migration: The Chinese New Year is the largest human migration in the world, with over 3 billion trips taken during the holiday period.
- Economic boost: The Chinese New Year is a significant economic boost for China, with many businesses and industries experiencing a surge in sales and activity.
- Cultural significance: The Chinese New Year is an important cultural event that promotes family values, social harmony, and good fortune.
Overall, the Chinese New Year is a joyous and festive holiday that celebrates the arrival of spring and the beginning of a new year.