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Lunar New Year, also sometimes called Spring Festival, is a massive celebration in many cultures around the world. It's based on the lunisolar calendar, so the date changes every year, falling somewhere between late January and February according to the Gregorian calendar we normally use.
Here are some key things to know about Lunar New Year:
Celebration of Spring and New Beginnings: It traditionally marks the start of spring and a new year on the lunisolar calendar. Many cultures view it as a time to wash away the old and welcome fresh beginnings.
Widespread Celebration: It's one of the most important holidays in China, Vietnam, Korea, and other Asian countries. There are also significant celebrations in Chinatowns and other Asian communities around the globe.
Family Reunion: A central theme is family reunion. People travel long distances to be with loved ones, similar to Thanksgiving or Christmas in Western cultures.
Festivities: The festivities typically last for fifteen days and involve:
Decorations: Homes and streets are decorated with red lanterns, symbolizing good luck and prosperity.
Food: Special dishes are prepared for family feasts, often symbolizing good fortune and wealth.
Fireworks and Noise: Firecrackers are lit to ward off evil spirits and bring good luck.
Lion Dances: Lion dances are performed to bring good luck and blessings.
Gift-Giving: Children receive red envelopes containing money.