Chinese New Year

By Becca Bolerjack

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Chinese New Year is a 15 day festival in China that celebrates the new year. It is the biggest social and economic holiday in China.

Chinese New Year takes place every year on the day of the second new moon after the winter solstice. This day occurs somewhere between January 21 and February 19.

The ancient Chinese calendar was set according to the phases of the moon. Each year was named after 1 of the 12 Chinese zodiac animals, a tradition that is held to this day. The 12 Chinese zodiac animals are tiger, rat, ox, rabbit, dragon, snake, horse, sheep/goat, monkey, rooster, dog, and pig.

Today, China recognizes January 1 as the start of a new year, but still celebrates the Chinese New Year based on the ancient Chinese calendar.

There are many traditions that go along with Chinese New Year celebrations. Celebrations mainly take place in China, but also take place in many countries around the world.

San Fransisco, California

Penang, Malaysia

Surabaya, Indonesia

People eat Chinese dumplings as their first meal on the first day of Chinese New Year. The dumplings resemble ancient Chinese money and are eaten to bring wealth in the new year.

People in China believe that dragons bring good luck, a long life and wisdom. Because of this belief, dragon dances are done during the Chinese New Year celebrations to scare away evil spirits and bring in a good year.

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