IntroductionofChineseNewYearCustomsin2021ChineseNewYear,alsoknownasSpringFestival,isthemostimportanttraditionalfestivalinChina.Itisbasedonthelunarcalendarandmarksthebeginningofanewyear.Here,Iwillintro
Introduction of Chinese New Year Customs in 2021
Chinese New Year, also known as Spring Festival, is the most important traditional festival in China. It is based on the lunar calendar and marks the beginning of a new year. Here, I will introduce some of the customs and traditions associated with the Chinese New Year in 2021.
First and foremost, the Chinese New Year is a time for family reunions. People living in different cities or even different countries travel back to their hometowns to celebrate with their loved ones. The New Year's Eve dinner, known as the "reunion dinner," is a significant activity during this festival. Family members gather around a table full of delicious food, symbolizing harmony and unity.
Decorating the house is also an essential part of the Chinese New Year celebration. Red is the predominant color used, as it is believed to bring good luck and fortune. People hang red lanterns and Spring Festival couplets on their doors, and the Chinese character "福" (fortune) is often displayed upside down, a tradition believed to bring in good luck and blessings.
During the festival, children receive "red envelopes" containing money from their elders, which is considered a symbol of good luck and a way to transfer blessings. Fireworks and firecrackers are also set off to scare away evil spirits and bring in good luck for the coming year.
Another fascinating aspect of the Chinese New Year is the lion and dragon dances. People perform these dances to ward off evil spirits and pray for a prosperous year ahead. The lion and dragon are believed to possess mythical powers that can bring good fortune, so these dances are highly anticipated by both locals and tourists.
In recent years, the custom of celebrating the Chinese New Year has transcended national boundaries, spreading to different parts of the world. More and more people from different cultural backgrounds have come to appreciate and celebrate the festival, recognizing its significance and cultural value.
In conclusion, the Chinese New Year is a time for family reunions, delicious food, and vibrant traditions. It is a festival filled with joy, love, and hope, as people bid farewell to the old year and welcome the new one. As the Chinese saying goes, "Gong xi fa cai!" (Wishing you prosperity in the upcoming year!)