|
The Chinese New Year is one of the biggest festivals in the world. It has been celebrated for over 2000 years. It is also known as the Lunar New Year. The New Year symbolizes the spring season.
There are twelve Chinese zodiac signs represented by twelve animals. These are the Rat, Ox, Rabbit, Dog, Tiger, the Dragon, Horse, Snake, Ram, Rooster, Monkey, and Pig. The Chinese calendar is symbolized by one of these animals every year.
The Chinese New Year starts on the 1st day of the first lunar month and ends on the 15th day. The last day is known as Lantern Festival. Chinese New Year’s Eve is also known as Chuxi.
There are huge festivals and parades in various countries, with large Chinese population. The city of Hong Kong hosts one of the most lavish Chinese New Year Festival. Around this time, people visit their friends and relatives. Houses are decorated and people exchange gifts. Mostly the decorations are in red which is a color of luck.
One of the Chinese New Year customs is to buy a plant or bloom from the flower market. Plants like kumquat trees, narcissus, and peonies are for prosperity. Peach blossoms are ideal for romance and tangerine plants with leaves are for marriage and long-lasting relationships.
If you are in Hong Kong during this time, don’t forget to see the Cathay Pacific International Chinese New Year Night Parade. There are local marching bands, ornately decorated floats and cultural performances. Another highlight is the spectacular night of fireworks.
|
