Chinese New Year customs

Chinese New Year is typically determined by the lunar calendar, while New Year celebrations in foreign countries（Countries other than China） are usually based on the Gregorian calendar or solar calendar. The traditional Chinese Lunar New Year, also known as the Spring Festival, is usually celebrated between January 21st and February 20th of the Gregorian calendar, with the specific date varying each year.

In foreign countries, many nations follow the Gregorian calendar, celebrating New Year on January 1st. However, some countries and cultures may have their own unique New Year dates, such as the springtime Nowruz in Iran or the Jewish celebration of Rosh Hashanah.

However, in China, the days of New Year will be very fulfilling with various customs and traditions:

Spring Couplets and "Fu" Character: Families often hang spring couplets on their doors, featuring auspicious phrases. Additionally, the "Fu" character (meaning "blessing" or "good fortune") is a common decoration during the Spring Festival, symbolizing luck and prosperity.

Reunion Dinner: During the New Year, families gather for a lavish reunion dinner. This meal signifies unity and familial bonds, serving as a significant family activity.

Red Packets (Hongbao) with Lucky Money: Elders typically give red packets containing lucky money to unmarried younger family members as a gesture of blessing and good fortune. The color red is considered auspicious.

Fireworks and Firecrackers: In some areas, people set off fireworks and firecrackers to ward off evil spirits and bring good luck. However, due to environmental and safety concerns, some cities have banned the use of fireworks and firecrackers.

Lion and Dragon Dances: Lion and dragon dances, traditional performances, are commonly held during temple fairs and parades to celebrate the arrival of the new year.

New Year Visits and Worship: People exchange New Year greetings and blessings with each other, paying visits to relatives and friends. Some also visit temples to pray for peace and good fortune in the coming year.

Lantern Festivals: Many cities organize lantern festivals, showcasing various artistic lanterns and lights, attracting both tourists and local residents.

Home Cleaning: Before the New Year, families traditionally engage in thorough cleaning to sweep away the old year's negative energy and welcome the new year with a fresh start.

These customs collectively create a festive and joyous atmosphere, emphasizing blessings, family, and positive beginnings during the Chinese New Year.