Looking Towards Spring
The Chinese New Year or 'Spring Festival' is China's most
important festivals and holiday time. According to the Chinese Lunar
Calendar, this year – the year of the Pig - starts on Tuesday, February 5, 2019.
Each year is assigned to one of 12 specific animals,
commonly referred to as the Chinese Zodiac. The traits (signs) of each animal indicate the
strengths and weaknesses of those born under the year of their sign.
The pig, for example, is considered to be diligent,
compassionate, and generous. With strong focus, they will achieve goals and
rarely seek help from others. Because they do not suspect trickery, so they are
easily fooled.
Within the Pig sign, there are many variations: wood pig,
fire pig, water, and more.
Preparations
Although it takes place in winter, it is called the Spring
Festival because this is when people start looking forward to the coming
spring.
The streets of Chinatowns and Chinese neighborhoods around the
world are decorated with red lanterns, red banners, and other “lucky red” items.
Fireworks, parades, and dragon dances
are also on public display during the 15 days of celebrations.
On the eve of the New Year is also when the most important meal
of the year is served. The ‘Reunion Dinner’ brings families together to share
deliciously prepared “lucky” dishes, such as noodles which represents a long
life. It is believed to be bad luck will come to those who cut the noodles.
Another favorite is Jiaozi. When the dumplings are round
they are meant to signify family unity. When shaped like crescent moons they are
a symbol of wealth and prosperity because that particular shape resembles the
shape of ancient Chinese money.
Along with sharing meals and visiting family friends and
relatives, participants also exchange red gifts (clothing, jewelry, etc.) and/or
red envelopes of money.
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