The 15-day celebration of Lunar New Year

The 15-day celebration of Lunar New Year

There are many other interesting and complicated customs that accompany the New Year celebration. Certain things must be done on certain days, according to traditional Chinese culture.

‧The first day of the Lunar New Year is "the welcoming of the gods of the heavens and earth." Fireworks herald the celebration as people visit the oldest members of their families.

‧On the second day, married daughters return to their parents' home. Sons-in-law pay respect to their parents-in-law by bringing gifts. Both parties give red envelopes to the children.

‧After visiting family and friends, many people go back to work on the fifth day. Factories and stores reopen with firecracker explosions. Tables of food and paper money are set at their main entrances.

‧Throughout the 15-day celebration, Asians visit their relatives and friends freely. They also visit the temples to pray for good fortune and health. Using fresh produce, people make a drink (or other special food) from vegetables to celebrate the birthday of human beings. Noodles may be eaten to promote longevity and raw fish for success.

‧On the eighth day some people have another family reunion dinner, and at midnight they pray to Tian Gong, the God of Heaven.

‧The ninth day is for making offerings to the Jade Emperor. For the remaining days, friends and relatives are invited for dinner. After so much rich food, people often eat simple rice congee and mustard greens to cleanse the system.

‧The 15th day of the New Year is called the Lantern Festival, which is celebrated at night with lantern displays and children carrying lanterns in a parade.

Join in the festivities in your area and wish all your friends a prosperous New Year!