Google trend - Lunar New Year

Lunar New Year, also known as Chinese New Year or Spring Festival, is one of the most important traditional festivals celebrated by Chinese people around the world. It is based on the lunar calendar, which follows the cycles of the moon, and typically falls between January 21st and February 20th.

The origins of Lunar New Year can be traced back thousands of years to ancient China. Legend has it that a mythical beast called Nian would come out on the last night of the year to attack villages and devour livestock and crops. To protect themselves, people started to put up red decorations and set off firecrackers, as Nian was believed to be afraid of loud noises and the color red. This tradition has continued to this day, and red remains the dominant color during Lunar New Year celebrations.

Preparations for Lunar New Year usually begin weeks in advance. Families clean their homes thoroughly to sweep away any bad luck from the previous year and make way for good fortune. They also decorate their houses with red lanterns, couplets, and paper cuttings, which are believed to bring luck and prosperity. In addition, people buy new clothes to wear during the festival, as it symbolizes a fresh start and new beginnings.

One of the highlights of Lunar New Year is the reunion dinner, which takes place on the eve of the festival. It is a time for families to come together and enjoy a lavish feast. Traditional dishes like fish, dumplings, and glutinous rice cakes are served, each with its own auspicious meaning. For example, fish symbolizes abundance and prosperity, while dumplings represent wealth and good luck.

During the festival, people also exchange red envelopes, known as "hongbao," which contain money. This tradition is believed to bring good fortune and blessings to both the giver and the receiver. It is particularly exciting for children, as they eagerly await the red envelopes from their elders.

Another popular activity during Lunar New Year is the lion and dragon dances. These vibrant and energetic performances are believed to ward off evil spirits and bring good luck for the upcoming year. Dancers dressed as lions or dragons move to the rhythm of drums, cymbals, and gongs, creating a lively and festive atmosphere.

Fireworks and firecrackers are an integral part of Lunar New Year celebrations. The loud noises and bright lights are believed to scare away evil spirits and bring good luck for the year ahead. However, due to safety concerns and environmental issues, many cities have imposed restrictions on the use of fireworks in recent years.

In addition to China, Lunar New Year is also celebrated in various other Asian countries, including Vietnam, Korea, and Singapore, as well as in Chinatowns around the world. Festivities typically last for fifteen days, with each day having its own significance and customs.

Overall, Lunar New Year is a time for family, tradition, and renewal. It is a time to honor ancestors, pay respects to deities, and look forward to a prosperous and auspicious year ahead. With its rich cultural heritage and vibrant celebrations, Lunar New Year continues to be a cherished and significant festival for millions of people worldwide.