Not one specific country or culture — it’s one of the most internationally famous and iconic holidays in the world. It marks the start of a series of new events throughout the year, and is observed in various ways around the globe.

Lunar New Year: Introduction

●      What is Lunar New Year?

The celebration of Lunar New Year takes place with the new shift of the moon’s cycle and occurs throughout the globe at different dates as per the moon’s phase. This change brings along a clean slate and a fresh start.

This holiday, better known as Chinese New Year. This holiday is spread throughout the world from Asia, where it is celebrated most vividly and protractedly for 15 days. Locals traditionally call it the Spring Festival.

●      Origin and Historical Significance of Lunar New Year

The ancient agriculture practices clearly depict what the Lunar New Year celebrations have stemmed from. The traditions go back thousands of years and are practiced to mark the commencement of spring season as well as new beginnings. The cycle of life is important, and so restoring through cleansing, family reunification, or a hopeful outlook towards the future is essential.

When is Lunar New Year? Understanding the Lunar Calendar

●      Lunar New Year Dates and Calendar System

The Lunar New Year (春节, also known as Chinese New Year) has no set date and falls on the New Moon that falls between Jan. 21 and Feb. 20. Lunar new year is celebrated on the second new moon following the winter solstice. The system is based on a lunar calendar, in which all months begin with new moons, so holidays date every year.

●      Why the Date Changes Each Year

Lunar months average out to about 29.5 days, which adds up to around 354 days in a lunar year. This is 11 days less than The Gregorian calendar year so in order to do the compensation an extra month is added each three years or so. That results in changes to holiday dates every year.

Lunar New Year vs. Chinese New Year

●      Similarities Between Lunar New Year and Chinese New Year

Just as most people link Lunar New Year to Chinese New Year, these two are not the same. The term Lunar New Year, a more generic name, includes holidays observed on the lunar calendar while Chinese New Year is one of the cultural holidays pertaining to China. Furthermore, both cultures observe fables connected to the origin of creation and new year celebrations, their customs and practices differ.

●      Key Differences and Unique Traditions

The main difference between the Lunar New Year and the Chinese New Year lies in specific rituals and symbols. For example, in China, red envelopes filled with money play an important role to symbolize good luck and prosperity, while in other countries such as Vietnam, family gatherings and special dishes such as banh chuong (rice cake) are favored.

About a week before the New Year, people wherever they live, come to their hometown or village to celebrate the holiday with their families. They carry out general cleaning of the house, get rid of unnecessary things, and purchase all that is needed. Houses and streets, entrance doors are decorated with red lamps, inscriptions, garlands.

Who Celebrates Lunar New Year?

The celebration is observed in several East Asian nations such as China, Korea, Vietnam, Taiwan as well as Singapore and other countries out of which the Chinese, Korean and Vietnamese population have settled. In regions such as Japan, where the festivity is not showcased, these lunar calendar traditions still hold social relevance.

Lunar New Year Animals and the Chinese Zodiac

●      H3 – Understanding the 12 Lunar New Year Animals

The 12 animals of the Chinese Zodiac play a role in Lunar New Year celebrations. Every animal is linked to a year, and each has its individual characteristics. These animals determine the longer characteristics of the year, as well as the fates of people born in that year.

1. Rat: Cunning, sociability, ambition

2. bull: perseverance, reliability, practicality

3. Tiger: courage, independence, strength

4. Rabbit: Peacefulness, sensitivity, diligence

5. Dragon: Power, Confidence, Creativity

6. Snake: Wisdom, Charisma, Determination

7. Horse: freedom-loving, energetic, charming

8. Goat: Creativity, sensitivity, tenderness

9. Monkey: Intellect, wit, curiosity

10. Rooster: Precision, directness, self-confidence

11. Dog: Loyalty, Honesty, Protectiveness

12. Pig: generosity, optimism, diligence

●      Lunar New Year Dragon – A Symbol of Prosperity and Power

The Dragon is revered in the Chinese culture as a sign of strength, therefore being regarded as one of the most powerful creatures within the Chinese Zodiac. The dragon symbolizes prosperity. Since the Year of The Dragon is deemed as the most auspicious out of all the years, it is associated with grand celebrations, followed by parades of dragons which also serves as an ice-polic symbol for the new year.

●      How Lunar Animals Influence the Year’s Characteristics

Each animal adds their specific traits which defines the attribute of the year, for example, the Year of the Rabbit can be associated with peace means harmony. The Year of The Tiger on the other hand is known for activity and courage. Knowing which animal rules the year helps people better meditate on the impending years.

Popular Lunar New Year Traditions and Customs

●      Lunar New Year Food and Symbolic Dishes

During Lunar New Year festivities, food is of cardinal significance. One of the most famous symbolic dishes are dumplings (in China), which represent riches, and rice cakes in Vietnam. Sweets and fish dishes are also popular, representing wealth and prosperity.

●      Lunar New Year Decorations and Their Meanings

The main color for decorations during the Lunar New year is red and bright colors because it indicates joy and averts nefarious spirits. Red lanterns, patterns, and paper dragons are common. All of this makes for a good festive spirit and luck.

●      Gift Suggestions for Lunar New Year – What to Give and Avoid

Gifts for the Lunar New Year require careful thought with regards to symbolic value. Red decorative envelopes containing cash make ideal gifts as they symbolize joy and wealth. Nevertheless, do not offer watches or knives as gifts because they are interpreted as separation and farewells.

Conclusion

The lunar new year is the holiday that brings together the cultures and people of the world with its wondrous traditions and symbols in a centralized theme. To find out about the lunar new year and its impact on your fortune, download the Moonly app and learn more amazing and interesting facts about traditions and lunar cycles.

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