Festivals

Overview:The Spring Festival is the most important traditional festival in China, with a history of more than 4,000 years, symbolizing the farewell to the old and the welcome to the new, reunion and hope.

1. The origin and legend of the Spring Festival

The Spring Festival originated from the ancient New Year’s sacrificial activities. According to legend, the legend of driving away the “year” by setting off firecrackers and pasting red decorations is the source of many Spring Festival customs.

2. Preparations before the Spring Festival

• Sweeping the dust:A symbol of bidding farewell to the old and welcoming the new, it is intended to clear away all bad luck.
• Purchasing New Year’s goods:Including food, clothing and decorations, preparing for the New Year reunion.
• Posting Spring Festival couplets and window flowers:Symbolizes joy and expresses good wishes for the New Year.

3. Celebrations on New Year’s Eve

• Eating New Year’s Eve dinner:Family reunion, sharing a feast that symbolizes reunion and harvest.
• Staying up all night:Staying up all night to welcome the arrival of the New Year and express expectations for the future.
• Setting off fireworks:Drive away evil spirits and add to the festive atmosphere.

4. Celebrations in the first month of the year

• New Year’s greetings:Relatives and friends visit each other and pass on blessings.
• New Year’s money:Elders give red envelopes to younger generations, implying peace and good fortune.
• Dragon and lion dances:A folk performance that symbolizes driving away evil spirits, bringing good luck and praying for blessings.

5. Cultural significance of the Spring Festival

The Spring Festival is a symbol of family reunion and cultural inheritance, reflecting the Chinese people’s deep emphasis on family, society and a good life.