Extension of chinese new year
The Chinese New Year, also known as the Spring Festival, is a 15-day celebration in China and other countries with significant Chinese populations. The celebration typically begins on the first day of the first month in the traditional Chinese calendar and ends on the 15th day. Here are some of the key events and traditions that take place during the Chinese New Year:
Day 1-3: Preparations and Family Reunions
- Cleaning the house to sweep away bad luck
- Decorating with red decorations, lanterns, and couplets
- Cooking traditional dishes, such as dumplings and niangao (sticky rice cake)
- Family reunions and gatherings
Day 4-6: Lion and Dragon Dances
- Lion and dragon dances are performed to bring good luck and fortune
- Fireworks and firecrackers are set off to scare away evil spirits
- Traditional games, such as mahjong and card games, are played
Day 7-10: Visiting Relatives and Friends
- Visiting relatives and friends to exchange gifts and well-wishes
- Giving and receiving red envelopes (hongbao) filled with money
- Enjoying traditional foods and drinks, such as hot pot and tea
Day 11-14: Temple Fairs and Cultural Events
- Temple fairs are held, featuring traditional performances, games, and food
- Cultural events, such as traditional music and dance performances
- Visiting temples and shrines to pray for good luck and fortune
Day 15: Lantern Festival
- The Lantern Festival marks the final day of the Chinese New Year celebrations
- Lanterns are lit and displayed in public spaces and homes
- Traditional foods, such as tangyuan (glutinous rice balls), are eaten
Some of the key traditions and customs associated with the Chinese New Year include:
- Wearing new clothes and giving gifts to children
- Eating traditional foods, such as dumplings and niangao
- Giving and receiving red envelopes (hongbao) filled with money
- Visiting temples and shrines to pray for good luck and fortune
- Watching traditional performances, such as lion and dragon dances
- Setting off fireworks and firecrackers to scare away evil spirits
Overall, the Chinese New Year is a time for family reunions, cultural celebrations, and traditional customs. It is a significant holiday in Chinese culture and is celebrated by people of Chinese descent around the world.