Chinese new year eve
Chinese New Year's Eve, also known as Chúxī () or Spring Festival's Eve, is the evening before the first day of the Chinese New Year. It is a significant traditional holiday in China and other countries with significant Chinese populations.
Here are some interesting facts and customs associated with Chinese New Year's Eve:
- Family Reunions: Chinese New Year's Eve is a time for family reunions. People often return to their hometowns to spend the evening with their loved ones.
- Traditional Dinner: A traditional Chinese New Year's Eve dinner, also known as "Reunion Dinner," is a must-have. The dinner typically includes symbolic dishes such as fish (for abundance), niangao (sticky rice cake for progress), and dumplings (for wealth).
- Watching the Spring Festival Gala: The Spring Festival Gala, also known as the "Chunwan" (), is a popular TV program that airs on Chinese New Year's Eve. It features music performances, comedy sketches, and other entertainment.
- Fireworks and Firecrackers: Fireworks and firecrackers are traditionally used to scare away evil spirits and bring good luck.
- Visiting Temples and Ancestors: Many people visit temples and pay respects to their ancestors on Chinese New Year's Eve.
- Wearing New Clothes: It's customary to wear new clothes on Chinese New Year's Eve to symbolize a fresh start.
- Giving Red Envelopes: Adults give red envelopes filled with money to children and seniors as a symbol of good luck and prosperity.
- Watching the Lion Dance: Lion dances are often performed during Chinese New Year's Eve to bring good luck and fortune.
- Eating Tangerines: Tangerines are a traditional fruit eaten on Chinese New Year's Eve, symbolizing good luck and prosperity.
- Counting Down to the New Year: At midnight, people count down to the new year, often with a countdown on TV or with family and friends.
In modern times, Chinese New Year's Eve has become a time for people to come together with loved ones, enjoy traditional foods, and celebrate the start of a new year.