Happy Chinese New Year
Chinese New Year, also known as the Spring Festival is one of the most traditional holidays in China. Family and friends gather to enjoy delicious meals such as dumplings fish and rice cakes.
The Chinese New Year is always celebrated on the first day of the Chinese Lunar Calender and lasts 15 days. Each year is associated with one of the twelve zodiac signs. 2024 is the year of the dragon. 2023 was the year of the rabbit and 2025 is the year of the snake. Each year is considered to symbolize qualities that will dominate the coming year. If you were born in 1976, 1988, 2000 or 2012, then according to Chinese astrology you are a dragon, which means that 2024 will be you year!
On the 15th day, at the first full moon of the new year, the lantern festival is celebrated. Lanterns are hung on the door and children go out into the street with a lantern. Just as the Chinese New Year, the lantern festival is one of the most important and populair festivals in China.
Traditions
During Chinese New Year, red envelopes with money are distributed to children and people who are not married. Giving a red envelope symbolizes luck and prosperity for the coming year. Red is considered a lucky color in China.
Other great gift tips!
Another important tradition that is indispensable during the Chinese New Year is the lion dance. During this dance, the first one in the row carries the lion's head and the rest of the people form the body. The lion dance is not just beautiful to see, but is also done to drive away evil spirits and welcome good luck.
Always wanted to see an lion dance up close? This is your chance! The lion dance will take place at an few of our Amazing Oriental stores! Click here for more information about the dates and events!
Fun Fact:
Een Gelukkig Nieuwjaar wensen kan je op 3 manieren doen:
- In het Mandarijn: gong xi fa cai (恭喜发财）
- In het Kantonees: gong hey fat choi（恭喜發財）
- xin nian kuai le (新年快乐) betekent letterlijk Gelukkig Nieuwjaar
