Want to Celebrate Chinese New Year? Here are the Essentials.
Saturday, January 14, 2017This post contains affiliate links.
Imagine a week-long public holiday in which the entire country celebrates. The Chinese New Year may not be well known to those in the United States that aren't of Chinese descent, but it's a holiday with deep roots, fun traditions, and delicious foods. If you're looking to expand your family's cultural horizons, learning about and celebrating others' holidays is a good way to do it. Want to celebrate Chinese New Year this year? Here are the essentials.
About the Chinese New Year
One thing you might have noticed is that Chinese New Year (also called Spring Festival) is celebrated on different dates each year. The holiday always takes place between January 21 and February 20, but the exact date the holiday is celebrated depends on the first day of the Chinese lunar calendar. This year (updated for 2019), New Year will fall on February 5th and last for a week. It's a time to celebrate a year of hard work and to wish for a successful new year.
The Year of the....
The current animal year is supposed to be very unlucky for those born during that same animal year, which comes around every 12 years. 2017 is the year of the Rooster [2019: Year of the Pig], so to avoid bad luck during this year, Roosters should wear something red that is given to them by an elder relative.
Coloring Page
Print the Zodiac Coloring Page below to help the kids get into the spirit of the holiday. To print, right-click on the picture and choose "save image as...", then print it from your computer.
Traditional Sweet Treats
Decorating
You can find fun (reusable) decor online. Try decorating with LED-illuminated lanterns or string lights, red garlands, colorful dragons, firecrackers, lucky coins, roosters, and don't forget those red envelopes...
The Giving of Red Envelopes
You can buy lucky red envelopes online or find red envelope crafts to print out and assemble yourself. Check mine out below.
Chinese New Year: Lucky Money Red Envelope Craft {Free Printable}
Performances
PIN ME:
Will you be celebrating Chinese New Year this year? Is this your first time celebrating? What is your favorite tradition? I love to read your comments!
0 comments