CHINESE
NEW
YEAR
Chinese New Year
Chinese New Year is also known as
• The Spring Festival because it takes place on the first
day of Spring based Lunar Calendar.
• The Lunar New Year because the day occurs on the
‘first new moon.’
Celebrated over many centuries, it is strongly connected
to many myths and traditions.
Chinese New Year celebrations are held around the
world.
Chinese Zodiacs
Each year the Chinese Lunar
Calendar is represented
by an animal.
There are 12 animals in total.
People’s traits and characteristics are tied to the
animals represented by their birth year.
Year of the Horse
This year is the Year of
the Horse.
Personality: energetic,
active, cunning and
has positive outlook on life.
Lucky Colors: green, red,
Purple.
Lucky Numbers: 3, 4, 9.
The Story of Nian
Chinese mythology says that
Nian was a ugly and very strong
monster who lived in the
mountains.
On the 15th day of every month,
Nian would attack leave the
mountain and attack the village
below.
One day, a wise man came to
help the villagers. Together, they
came up with a plan to scare
Nian
When Nian came down to terrorize the village, the
villagers made loud noises by banging on drums,
set off firecrackers, dressing up as lions and the
color red was displayed everywhere.
All these tactics worked and Nian retreated back to
the mountain.
The story of Nian has
influenced many Chinese
New Year traditions.
• Red objects are hung on
windows and doors
• Wearing red clothes
• Beating of drums and
gongs
• Lighting of firecrackers
• Ceremonial lion dances
The Lion Dance
Lion dance occurs during
the first few days of the
New Year.
Performed to chase away
evil spirits, ghosts and
monsters like Nian.
The performance
combines dance and
martial arts.
Usually performed by 2
people.
Accompanied with
loud music (drummers
and gongs) and
firecrackers.
15 Day Celebration
Chinese New Year celebration lasts for 15 days.
Some of the traditions include:
• Fireworks to welcome
the New Year.
• Wearing new clothing.
• Visiting friends & families.
• Hosting elaborate dinners.
• Children receive red envelopes with money
inside.
Certain foods are eaten
for different reasons
• Tangerines brings
wealth and luck
• Dumplings bring luck
and togetherness
• Long noodles brings
long life
• Pomelo brings
prosperity
• Long leafy greens and
bean wishes parents
a long life
The Lantern Festival
The Lantern festival is on the last day of celebrations.
The End
Happy New Year