Don’t you just love it when you continue to carry on traditions that you know have been practiced by your ancestors for generations now? Though modern culture hasn’t allowed us to keep these in order, there are still some nations that hold their traditions close to their chest and never let go. Just like the people of China.
If you’re celebrating the Chinese New Year or you have a friend who celebrates it, then this year, go all out and involve yourself in the festivities. These practices are literally centuries old and for the most part remain unchanged. Here’s your guide to Chinese New Year Traditions that you can still follow, even if you’re a millennial –
NYE Dinner
The Chinese love to make it a family affair, sitting around the table and savouring delicacies with loved ones. One of the must-haves for this special occasion are classic dumplings, which symbolize wealth – the little parcels resemble money bags. Another favorite staple for the meal is fish.
The Color Red
You will notice that the Chinese love red. Whether its painting their homes, dressing up for special occasions or warding off evil – they believe that the color is vibrant and is responsible for prosperity and health. For the Chinese New Year, they gift little red envelopes to their loved ones with money, to symbolize prosperity. The house is then decorated with fancy fair, including red lanterns, red upholstery and everyone wears red as well.
Fireworks
A Chinese celebration rarely goes on without fireworks in the end. Tradition holds it that long ago a terrifying beast wanted to devour the city. However, people soon discovered that he was afraid of the color red and fireworks that lit up the sky. Since then they burst long lines of fire crackers and the sky is lit up by the most beautiful and authentic fireworks. It really is a joy to watch Chinese people in the streets, looking in awe up at the night sky that bursts with life and flame.
Markets
Around the time of New Year, the by-lanes of China are crowded with markets and local street vendors who sell decorative articles, ornaments and anything that makes one think of a celebration. Chinese people will buy new items just around this time, because they are ringing in a new year. It’s a bustling affair and a thrilling one at that, to witness and be a part of such a vibrant culture.
