Chinese Lunar New Year’s Day is celebrated every year on the first day of the traditional lunisolar Chinese calendar, typically occurring between January 21 and February 20. This year, it falls on January 29. It is also commonly referred to as Lunar New Year or Spring Festival. Celebrations last for 15 days, seven of which are work-free. During this fun period, families get together, cash gifts are handed to young people, and homes are thoroughly cleaned to usher in fresh blessings for the new year.
History of Chinese Lunar New Year's Day
The Chinese Lunar New Year’s Day is one of the most — if not the most — important holidays in China. The New Year begins when the new moon appears, which typically occurs between January 21 and February 20.
The holiday’s origins can be traced back to the period between 475 B.C. and 221 A.D., known as “the Warring States period.” Several myths and legends about the origins of this holiday exist. A popular myth narrates the story of a monster called ‘Nian,’ meaning ‘Year,’ who terrorized villagers at the beginning of each new year. According to the story, the monster also happened to be afraid of bright lights, loud sounds, and the color red. The villagers then used all these to frighten away the monster.
In the past, Chinese New Year was a special time to honor deities and ancestors. During present-day celebrations, there are several commonplace traditions practiced by people. For instance, homes are thoroughly cleaned out. This cleaning is symbolic of chasing out bad luck and ushering good fortune into the year. Families gather and enjoy special meals. Young ones are given money in red envelopes. On the final day, the ‘Lantern Festival’ takes place. During the festival, glowing lanterns are hung up in temples or carried around. The streets are taken over by parades and ceremonial dances.
Chinese Lunar New Year's Day timeline
The Battle of Changping takes place between the States of Qin and Xhao.
The Qin dynasty is established.
Great Britain invades Hong Kong.
Great Britain hands Hong Kong back to China.
Chinese Lunar New Year's Day FAQs
What is the population of China?
China is home to approximately 1.4 billion people.
What countries speak Chinese?
Countries where Chinese is used as an official language, include mainland China, Taiwan, Singapore, Macau, and Hong Kong, and there are some other countries that merely have large numbers of people who speak Chinese.
Who is the president of China?
The current president of China is Xi Jinping.
Chinese Lunar New Year's Day Activities
Wish someone a happy new year!
On the other side of the globe, a new year has just begun. Whatever corner of the world you live in, wish all Chinese people a happy new year by posting a kind message on social media!
Learn more about China
Do more research about China and eliminate any misconceptions you might have about the country or the holiday itself. Remember, knowledge is power!
Tout it on social media
Share the holiday on social media. Don’t forget to use the hashtag #chineselunarnewyear.
5 Fascinating Facts About China
China is the most populated country
China is the most populated country in the whole world.
China didn’t invent fortune cookies
Fortune cookies did not originate from China, they were invented in San Francisco.
China has a lot of railways
If all the railways in China are combined, they can surround the whole earth — two times.
Every year has a zodiac name
Every year is named after one of China’s 12 zodiac animals, which are as follows: Rat, Ox, Tiger, Rabbit, Dragon, Snake, Horse, Goat, Monkey, Rooster, Dog, and Pig.
History is important
History is an important part of the educational system in China, so much so that even the younger generation is conversant with the country’s history.
Why We Love Chinese Lunar New Year's Day
It’s a celebration of culture
Chinese Lunar New Year is a unique celebration of Chinese culture and traditions. Every country has its own symbols that promote a healthy sense of cultural pride and a sense of belonging.
It brings families together
During Chinese New Year, people visit their families at home gatherings. This allows for bonding, especially for those who live apart from their loved ones. These observances give them a wonderful chance to reunite and celebrate as one.
It ushers in a fresh start
A new year is a time to re-energize and re-strategize. Chinese Lunar New Year’s Day is a fresh start and symbolizes the ushering in of new blessings and good fortune.
Chinese Lunar New Year's Day dates
| Year | Date | Day |
|---|---|---|
| 2022 | February 1 | Tuesday |
| 2023 | January 22 | Sunday |
| 2024 | February 10 | Saturday |
| 2025 | January 29 | Wednesday |
| 2026 | February 17 | Tuesday |
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