Chinese New Year (Spring Festival / 春节) grew out of year-end and spring sacrificial rites already attested in the Shang and Zhou periods, more than 3,000 years ago. It later became the lunisolar new-year celebration of reunion and renewal. Popular folklore explains red decorations and firecrackers as a way to drive off the mythical beast Nian.
Meaning
Chinese New Year, also known as the Spring Festival (春节/春節), is the most important traditional holiday in Chinese culture. It marks the beginning of the lunisolar new year and is a time for family reunions, honoring ancestors, and ushering in prosperity.
Customs & Traditions
Traditional celebrations include giving red envelopes (hongbao), setting off firecrackers, lion and dragon dances, family reunion dinners, and decorating with spring couplets. The celebration lasts 15 days, culminating in the Lantern Festival.
Celebrated by Chinese communities worldwide and across East and Southeast Asia.
Popular Greetings
Xin Nian Kuai Le (Happy New Year), Gong Xi Fa Cai (Wishing you prosperity)
Traditional Foods
Dumplings, Fish (symbolizing surplus), Spring Rolls, Nian Gao (Rice Cake), Tangyuan
Myths & Legends
The legend of Nian: A mythical beast that would eat villagers, which was scared away by loud noises (firecrackers) and the color red.
Taboos & Things to Avoid
Avoid sweeping the floor (sweeping away wealth), washing hair on the first day, or speaking negative words.