Chinese New Year

The Chinese New Year falls between January 21 and February 19 each year. It begins with the New Moon on the first day of the New Year and ends on the full moon fifteen days later. The last day of the New Year is called the Lantern Festival. It is celebrated at night with lantern displays and children carry lanterns in a parade. It is an important celebration all over the world. In China it is the most important holiday. The Chinese people celebrate their birthday on the date of the New Year regardless of the month in which they were born.

Each of the fifteen days has a significant meaning:

First Day: The Chinese welcome the gods of the heaven and the earth. Many people abstain from eating meat on this day to ensure long and happy lives.

Second Day: The Chinese pray to their ancestors and to their gods. They believe that this is the birthday of dogs and so they are treated special on this day.

Third and Fourth Days: Son-in-laws pay respect to their parents-in-law.

Fifth Day: On this day it considered bad luck to visit friends or family. People stay home to welcome the god of wealth, Po Woo.

Sixth Day: The Chinese go to their temples to pray and they visit family and friends.

Seventh Day: Farmers display their produce and make drinks from vegetables to celebrate. It is also considered the birthday of man. Noodles are eaten to promote longevity and raw fish for success. It is also a day to visit friends and relatives.

Eighth Day: There is a family reunion dinner and at midnight they pray to the god of heaven.

Ninth Day: Offerings are made to the Jade Emperor.

Tenth through the Twelfth Day: Friends and family are invited for dinner.

Thirteenth Day: After twelve days of consuming food, this day is set aside for simple fare to cleanse the system.

Fourteenth Day: Preparations are made to celebrate the Lantern Festival.

Fifteenth Day: The Lantern Festival celebration is held in the evening.

An important aspect of the Chinese New Year is the remembrance of ancestors who have passed away. Respect is given them because they were the foundation for the fortune of the family. On New Year's Eve, the family gathers for dinner. They acknowledge the spirit of their ancestors and they sit down for a communal feast that symbolizes family unity and honors past and present generations.

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