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甲辰年
The Tale of Nian
The Legendary Monster
that ruined New Year
Long ago in ancient China, a ferocious beast by the name of ‘Nian’ would come down from the mountain on every last day of the lunar year after sunset. The demon-like monster had a fearsome appearance with pointed horns on its head and sharp fangs inside its mouth. Wherever the fierce creature passed by, houses were razed to the ground, crops and livestock were devoured, human lives were slaughtered.
Traditions
There are multiple traditions during the first month of Lunar calendar. Let’s explore some of the most notable customs that take place when Chinese New Year is celebrated.
28th Dec
Spring cleaning is the practice of thoroughly cleaning a house that commonly takes place during the springtime. It symbolizes sweeping away the bad luck from the past year.
30th Dec
A Reunion Dinner is a festive feast which the entire family gathers to celebrate on New Year's Eve. It is regarded as the most important get-together meal of the entire year.
1st Jan
Red packets are given as tokens of good wishes during auspicious occasions, where the color red is considered a symbol of luck, life and happiness.
15th Jan
Celebrated on the first full moon of the year, it is a time when people go out at night solving riddles on lanterns. Family members come together and eat sweet dumplings at home.
