The Lunar New Year is an ancient tradition that dates back to ancient agricultural China. It falls on the second new moon of the winter solstice which marks the end of winter and the beginning of the new agricultural cycle. Over the years, Chinese migrants have brought this celebration with them to all the corners of the world. 

Here are some of the traditions that accompany the coming festivities:

Reunion dinner

-This is the dinner on the eve of the New Year where the entire family gathers to celebrate. Many travel long distances to make this meal.

Spring cleaning 

-This is the act of removing old, spoiled and unwanted items to declutter and remove old stagnant energies that have accumulated over the past year. This is so new energy ‘qi’ may fill the home or workspace.

Lion dances

-The lion in Chinese culture symbolises power, wisdom and superiority. These dances are performed to ward away evil and usher in prosperity and good luck.  

Open Houses

This is the act of inviting family, friends and acquaintances to one's home to share in the festive meals. It typically involves the following:

• Decorated homes adorned with auspicious symbols

• Plentiful food and drink to ensure guests are well-fed

• Red packets (Ang Paos) containing money which are given to the young and unmarried to symbolise blessings for good fortune. 

• Adorning new clothes to welcome in the new year

  These celebrations were from agrarian China where there was one harvest in the North and two to three in the South. The peasant farmers scrimped and saved all year in order to be able to splurge and treat their families during the Lunar New Year.

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