Lunar New Year
The Chinese New Year, also referred to as the Lunar New Year* and Spring Festival**, is based on the lunar calendar which follows the monthly cycles of the moon's phases. This holiday falls between January 21 and February 20. Each new year represents a fresh start and is also associated with one of the 12 animals in the Chinese Zodiac. These include: Rat, Ox, Tiger, Rabbit, Snake, Horse, Goat, Monkey, Rooster, Dog, and Pig.
*Lunar New Year- The Chinese New Year is not only an important holiday in China, it is also celebrated in Indonesia, the Philippines, Vietnam, South Korea, Malaysia, North Korea, Taiwan, Singapore, and Brunei. Although these countries follow the same calendar, traditions in each of these countries vary.
**Spring Festival- Although the holiday falls in the middle of the winter, the start of the Spring Festival marks the beginning of Spring.
2023 is the Year of the Rabbit
Those born in the year of the rabbit are said to be talented at many things. They are affectionate people, often excelling at forming close relationships. However, they also appreciate tranquility and seek out peace.
Festivities begin on the evening before the first day of the first lunar month and continue for the next 15 days when the moon is full. The last day of the holiday is celebrated with the Lantern Festival.
A Few Fun Facts
- January 22, 2023 marks the first day of the year 4721 on the Chinese calendar.
- "Guo Nian Hao" (pronounced gor nee-an how) means Happy New Year!
- More than 2 billion people worldwide will celebrate the Lunar New Year this year, which is approximately 20% of the world's population.
- The Lunar New Year is considered the "largest annual human migration" in the world since millions of people travel home to celebrate with their families.
- Each animal in the Chinese zodiac is said to have certain characteristics and personality traits that a person born in that year would also demonstrate.
- London, San Francisco, Sydney, New York, Vancouver, and Los Angeles have the largest Lunar New Year celebrations outside of Asia.
- Foods typically eaten include spring rolls, dumplings, noodles, steamed fish or chicken, and rice cakes. Each dish has a special meaning. For example, long noodles cannot be broken or cut because they are a symbol of long life.
- Red envelopes are traditionally given to children by their parents and anyone who is unmarried, even if they are 40 years old!