Chinese New Year has been celebrated for thousands of years. No one knows exactly when the tradition first started, but it is believed to date from at least the Shang Dynasty (1766 BC - 1122 BC), although it may be much older.
The Chinese calendar is much older than the Gregorian one we use today, although it has evolved over time. It follows the lunar cycle, with each month beginning with the new moon. Chinese New Year falls between 21st January and 20th February on the Gregorian calendar. This year it will be celebrated on 8th February. Celebrations run from Chinese New Year’s Eve, to the Lantern Festival 15 days later. It is the Year of the Monkey, one of twelve animals associated with Chinese New Year. The others are rooster, dog, pig, rat, ox, tiger, rabbit, dragon, snake, horse and sheep.
The colour red is often associated with Chinese New Year. In Chinese folk lore there was once a beast called the Nian who roamed the land at the beginning of each year, terrorising villagers. Red was found to drive the Nian away, so red clothes were worn, and red lanterns and scrolls were hung. The tale goes that the Nian was eventually captured by a monk, but people have continued the traditions. Red packets containing money are also often given to younger people by married couples, to bring luck.
Food plays an important role in Chinese New 6
Year. New Year’s Eve dinner is a day for families to gather together to celebrate at home. The type of food served depends on the country and region. Some of the most common food traditionally eaten on or around Chinese New Year include dumplings, fish and spring rolls. Many of the ingredients are chosen because their name is considered auspicious. For example, there is a vegetarian dish called Buddha’s Delight which is often eaten at this time of year. Fat choy is usually included in the dish, due to the last syllables of its name sounding similar to a Cantonese phrase for prosperity. The preparation and way of eating the dishes is also considered very important.
Restaurants across the UK will often hang up decorations for Chinese New year and hold their own celebrations, including special menus and entertainment. Many of the cities also host Chinese New Year celebrations and activities, from lantern making and martial arts demonstrations to parades and firework displays.
The Chinese dragon has become an iconic part of Chinese New Year. Dragons are said to ward off evil, and bring prosperity and good luck. The dragon dance is performed by a group of dancers carrying a giant, moveable dragon. It is believed that the longer the dragon, the more good luck it can bestow, so some can reach over 70 metres!
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