Chinese New Year 2024: Traditions, Rituals And Celebrations Around Lunar New Year

Get ready to usher in the Year of the Dragon as Chinese New Year, also known as Lunar New Year, arrives on Saturday, February 10th, 2024! Celebrated by over a billion people worldwide, this vibrant festival marks the start of a new lunar year, symbolizing fresh beginnings, good fortune, and family reunions.

When and Where is it Celebrated?

While primarily celebrated in China, Chinese New Year festivities unfold in Vietnamese, Korean, Mongolian, and other Asian communities around the globe. The official date follows the lunar calendar, falling between January 21st and February 20th on the Gregorian calendar. This year, festivities begin on February 10th and continue for 15 days, culminating in the Lantern Festival.

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The Year of the Dragon: Power and Prosperity

2024 welcomes the powerful and auspicious Year of the Dragon, the fifth animal in the 12-year zodiac cycle. Associated with elements of earth and yang, the dragon symbolizes power, ambition, wisdom, and good luck. People born in the Year of the Dragon are often seen as charismatic, strong-willed, and natural leaders.

Festive Traditions and Activities:

Cleaning and Decorating: Homes are thoroughly cleaned to dispel bad luck, and adorned with red lanterns, paper cuttings, and auspicious couplets wishing for prosperity and good health.

Reunion Dinners: Elaborate family meals feature symbolic dishes like dumplings (wealth), fish (abundance), and spring rolls (prosperity).

Gifting Red Envelopes: Lucky red envelopes filled with money are traditionally given to children and unmarried adults, symbolizing good fortune and well wishes. Lion and Dragon Dances: Energetic and colourful lion and dragon dances are performed to bring good luck and ward off evil spirits.

Fireworks and Lanterns: Dazzling firework displays and lantern floats illuminate the night skies, signifying prosperity and joy.

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Celebrating Beyond Borders:

Even if you're not directly connected to Chinese culture, you can still experience the magic of the New Year! Many cities around the world host vibrant parades, cultural performances, and special events open to the public. Explore local Chinatowns, sample delicious dumplings and other festive treats, and learn about the rich traditions behind this fascinating celebration.

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Tips to participate

Wear red: Red is considered an auspicious colour associated with luck and happiness. Offer greetings: Learn how to say "Happy New Year" in Mandarin ("X¨©nni¨¢n ku¨¤il¨¨!") or Cantonese ("Gong hei fat choy!"). Respect the customs: Be mindful of cultural sensitivities and participate with respect and appreciation.

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