Lunar new year 2018
The Lunar New Year, also known as Chinese New Year or Spring Festival, fell on January 28, 2018. It marked the beginning of the Year of the Dog in the Chinese zodiac.
Here are some interesting facts and traditions associated with the Lunar New Year 2018:
Zodiac Sign: The Year of the Dog is the 11th animal in the 12-year cycle of the Chinese zodiac. People born in 2018 are considered to be Dogs.
Celebrations: The Lunar New Year is a significant holiday in many East Asian countries, including China, Korea, Vietnam, and Singapore. It is a time for family reunions, feasting, and gift-giving.
Traditions:
- Cleaning the House: Before the New Year arrives, people typically clean their homes to sweep away bad luck and make room for good fortune.
- Wearing New Clothes: Wearing new clothes on the first day of the New Year symbolizes 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.
- Eating Traditional Foods: Special dishes are prepared during the Lunar New Year, such as dumplings, fish, and niangao (sticky rice cake).
- Lion and Dragon Dances: These traditional performances are meant to bring good luck and chase away evil spirits.
Festivities: The Lunar New Year was celebrated with parades, fireworks, and cultural events around the world. In China, the Forbidden City in Beijing hosted a grand celebration, while in San Francisco, the Chinatown community held a vibrant parade.
Astrology: According to Chinese astrology, the Year of the Dog is associated with the element of Earth and is considered a good year for relationships, career advancement, and personal growth.
Overall, the Lunar New Year 2018 was a time for people to come together with family and friends, reflect on the past year, and look forward to a prosperous and happy new year.