Chinese new year of the pig 2019

The Chinese New Year of the Pig, also known as the Spring Festival, fell on February 5, 2019. Here are some interesting facts and traditions surrounding the celebration:

The Pig as a Zodiac Animal: In the Chinese zodiac, the pig is the 12th and final animal in the cycle. People born in the year of the pig are believed to be kind, gentle, and honest.

Celebrations: The Chinese New Year is a 15-day celebration, with the first day being the most important. During this time, people visit family and friends, exchange gifts, and participate in traditional activities such as:

  1. Lion and dragon dances: These performances are believed to bring good luck and fortune.
  2. Fireworks: Fireworks are a big part of the celebration, symbolizing the driving away of evil spirits and bringing good luck.
  3. Red envelopes: Adults give red envelopes filled with money to children and unmarried adults as a symbol of good luck and prosperity.
  4. Traditional foods: Special dishes are prepared during the Chinese New Year, such as dumplings, fish, and niangao (sticky rice cake).
  5. Family gatherings: The Chinese New Year is a time for family reunions and bonding.

Traditions: Some popular traditions during the Chinese New Year include:

  1. Cleaning the house: A thorough cleaning of the house is believed to sweep away bad luck and make room for good fortune.
  2. Wearing new clothes: Wearing new clothes on the first day of the Chinese New Year symbolizes a fresh start.
  3. Giving and receiving gifts: Gifts are exchanged as a symbol of good luck and friendship.
  4. Visiting temples and shrines: Many people visit temples and shrines to pray for good luck and blessings.

Zodiac Animals: The Chinese zodiac is a cycle of 12 animals, with each animal representing a year. The 12 animals are:

  1. Rat
  2. Ox (or Cow)
  3. Tiger
  4. Rabbit (or Hare)
  5. Dragon
  6. Snake
  7. Horse
  8. Goat (or Sheep)
  9. Monkey
  10. Rooster
  11. Dog
  12. Pig (or Boar)

2019 Chinese New Year Calendar: Here is the Chinese New Year calendar for 2019:

I hope you enjoyed learning about the Chinese New Year of the Pig in 2019!