The Spring Festival, which falls on January 1st of the lunar calendar, lasts for 15 days, with festivities and customs that vary according to region and ethnicity.
Here are some highlights of the Spring Festival customs that are practiced across the country.
1.Red decorations: Red is an auspicious color in Chinese culture, symbolizing good fortune and happiness. During the Spring Festival, red lanterns, couplets, and banners with golden characters are hung on doors and windows to ward off evil spirits and welcome the New Year.
2.Family reunion: The Spring Festival is a time for family members to gather together, no matter how far they have traveled or how busy they are. It is customary for people to return to their hometowns and spend time with their parents, siblings, grandparents, and other relatives. The reunion dinner on New Year's Eve is the most important meal of the year, with many traditional dishes, such as fish, dumplings, and rice cakes.
3.Lucky money: Red envelopes filled with money are given to children and unmarried adults as a New Year's gift, known as "lucky money". The amount of money is usually an even number, as odd numbers are associated with funerals and bad luck.
4.Fireworks: Fireworks are an integral part of the Spring Festival celebrations, as they are believed to scare off monsters and bring good luck. Firecrackers and fireworks displays are set off on New Year's Eve and throughout the festival period. However, in recent years, many cities have imposed restrictions on fireworks for safety and environmental reasons.
The Spring Festival is not only a time for festivities but also a time for expressing gratitude, generosity, and good wishes. It is a time when people make resolutions for the New Year, pay homage to their ancestors, and wish for a prosperous and peaceful year ahead. The customs of the Spring Festival reflect the joyful and harmonious spirit of the Chinese people, and are a testament to the richness and diversity of their culture.
