Origin and History of New Year in China
The Chinese New Year has an interesting and unique story of origin. According to the Chinese history, there existed a giant creature named ‘Nian’ who used to gulp down human beings in a single bite. Slowly, people realized that Nian was afraid of red color and loud noises. Hence, they started bursting fireworks and used red color on a large scale to scare the monster. It has been observed as an auspicious day since then. The people believe that it has brought new life and peace to the inhabitants of the country. This day was also named as GuNian which means ‘Pass over the Nian’. Chinese New Year begins according to the Chinese calendar. The schedule consists of both Gregorian and lunar-solar calendar systems. As the track of the new moon changes each year, the day is observed anytime between late January and mid-February.
Local name: Lunar New Year
Ways to celeberate Lunar New Year in China
New Year in China is never complete without worshipping the ancestors. This ritual is also called as ‘The sacrifice to the ancestors’ in the country. On this day, the people wish each other ‘Gung Hay Fat Choy’ which means ‘don’t worry it is Happy New Year’ in Chinese. New Year Day is associated with red color, it is found everywhere during Chinese New Year and other family gatherings in China. The locals consider red as an auspicious color to drive away bad luck. The shade also symbolizes fire, good fortune and joy. People adorn themselves with red clothes and decorate their homes with red colored flowers on this occasion. Cleaning homes and garbage, avoiding quarrels are some of the common activities that are observed on this occasion. The day is celebrated by watching and participating in dragon dancing, lion dancing and organizing New Year’s Eve dinner.
