Mark Your Calendars: Chinese New Year 2018 Celebration Date - Everything You Need to Know!
Are you curious about when Chinese New Year 2018 is celebrated? Want to know more about this fascinating cultural celebration? Look no further than this article!
First, let's answer the main question: Chinese New Year 2018 falls on Friday, February 16th. This holiday is also known as the Spring Festival and is celebrated by Chinese people all over the world.
But why is this holiday such a big deal? For starters, it marks the beginning of a new lunar year and is the most important traditional Chinese holiday. It's a time for family reunions, delicious food, fireworks, and lots of cultural traditions.
In fact, did you know that Chinese New Year is the largest annual human migration in the world? Millions of Chinese people travel back to their hometowns to celebrate with loved ones, making this a particularly busy and bustling time of year in China.
Another interesting fact about Chinese New Year is that each year is associated with a particular animal from the Chinese zodiac. 2018 is the Year of the Dog, which is believed to bring good luck and fortune.
So, what can you expect if you're celebrating Chinese New Year 2018? Lots of red decorations, for one. Red is considered a lucky color in Chinese culture, so you'll see it everywhere during this time of year.
You'll also want to indulge in some traditional Chinese New Year foods, like dumplings and nian gao (sticky rice cakes). And don't forget to give red envelopes filled with money to your loved ones as a symbol of prosperity and good fortune.
If you're not able to make it to China for the holiday, don't worry! Chinese communities all over the world celebrate Chinese New Year, so you can join in on the fun no matter where you are.
But one thing is for sure – Chinese New Year is a truly special holiday that brings together families and communities to honor tradition and welcome in a new year with hope and joy.
In conclusion, whether you're Chinese or not, Chinese New Year 2018 is a celebration that's worth experiencing. So mark your calendar for February 16th and get ready to ring in the Year of the Dog with good food, good company, and plenty of festive cheer!
"When Is Chinese New Year 2018 Celebrated" ~ bbaz
Chinese New Year, also known as Lunar New Year, is the most important festival in China. It is celebrated across the country and in many parts of Asia. The festival usually falls between late January and mid-February, depending on the lunar calendar. This year, Chinese New Year 2018 will be celebrated on February 16th, marking the beginning of the Year of the Dog.
The History of Chinese New Year
Chinese New Year has a long history that dates back more than two thousand years. According to legend, the festival originated from a mythological creature known as the Nian, who would prey on villagers at the beginning of each year. To drive away the monster, people would hang red lanterns, burn bamboo, and set off fireworks.
In modern times, however, Chinese New Year has evolved into an opportunity for family reunions, feasting, and gift-giving. The festival typically lasts for fifteen days, with each day having its own unique customs and traditions.
The Tradition of Cleaning the House
Prior to the start of Chinese New Year, families will clean their houses from top to bottom to sweep away any ill-fortune and make way for good luck in the new year. This tradition is known as sweeping the dust.
How Red is the Color of Prosperity
One of the key symbols of Chinese New Year is the color red, which represents good fortune and prosperity. It is customary for families to decorate their homes with red lanterns, banners, and balloons during the festive season. Some people will wear red clothes or accessories as well, to bring in the good luck.
The Reunion Dinner
On New Year's Eve, families gather for a reunion dinner, which is considered the most important meal of the year. The dinner typically includes traditional Chinese dishes such as dumplings, fish, and sticky rice cake. After the meal, families may exchange gifts and red envelopes filled with money.
Fireworks and Firecrackers
Fireworks and firecrackers are an essential part of Chinese New Year celebrations. They are believed to have the power to scare away evil spirits and bring in good luck for the coming year. Explosions can be heard throughout the night during the festivities.
About Dragon and Lion Dances
During the New Year period, you can see dragon and lion dances performed throughout China. These dances are believed to bring good fortune and prosperity, and they are often accompanied by loud drums, cymbals, and gongs. People may also light incense and pray for blessings at temples or other holy sites.
Conclusion
Chinese New Year is a unique and festive celebration that dates back thousands of years. It's a time to celebrate family, friends, and community while also inviting in good fortune for the coming year. This year, the festival falls on February 16th and will be celebrated all across China and various other parts of the world. So here's wishing our Chinese brothers and sisters a Happy New Year!
When Is Chinese New Year 2018 Celebrated?
Introduction
Chinese New Year, also known as Spring Festival, is the most important festival in China. It is celebrated across 15 days and marks the beginning of a new lunar year. Chinese New Year 2018 falls on February 16th, marking the start of the Year of Dog. This article will compare and contrast the traditions, celebrations, foods and superstitions surrounding Chinese New Year.Historical Background
The history of Chinese New Year dates back more than 3,000 years ago. It is believed that ancient Chinese created the festival to celebrate the end of winter and the beginning of spring. Legend has it that a ferocious beast called Nian would emerge from the mountains to prey on people and cattle on the first day of the new year. To scare off the beast, people decorated their homes with red banners and lit paper lanterns. This is the origin of many of the decorations and rituals associated with the festival.Traditions and Customs
Chinese New Year is rich in customs and traditions. Red is the dominant color during the festival. It symbolizes good luck and happiness. People hang red lanterns, put up red couplets and wear red clothes. Another custom involves cleaning the house before New Year's Eve. This is to sweep away bad luck and make way for good fortune. On New Year's Eve, families gather for a banquet of traditional foods such as dumplings, rice cakes and fish. Fireworks are set off to drive away evil spirits.Superstitions
Superstitions play a big part in Chinese New Year. They range from what you can and can't buy, to how you should behave. For instance, cleaning should not be done on the first day of the new year as it is believed to sweep away good fortune. Sharp objects like knives and scissors should be avoided as they are believed to cut off good luck. Additionally, it is customary to eat certain foods during Chinese New Year. For instance, eating dumplings symbolizes wealth and prosperity while fish represents abundance and surplus.Regional Differences
Chinese New Year is celebrated differently in different parts of China. For instance, in Beijing, people traditionally eat jiaozi (dumplings) while in Guangzhou, people eat niangao (rice cakes). In Northern China, people will eat jiaozi during every meal for the entire day. In Southern China, there are colorful dragon and lion dances in the streets.Modern Celebrations
In modern times, Chinese New Year has become more commercialized. Shopping malls and department stores decorate with red lanterns, balloons and cutouts of zodiac animals. Gifts of red envelopes filled with money are given to children and unmarried adults. One of the most-watched events during the festival is the Spring Festival Gala broadcast on CCTV.London Chinatown Chinese New Year
The largest Chinese New Year celebrations outside of Asia take place in London's Chinatown. The area undergoes a massive transformation with decorations of red lanterns and banners. A parade through the streets showcases colorful floats, lion and dragon dancers. Street performers, acrobats and martial artists entertain the crowds. In recent years, famous celebrities have attended the festival to celebrate with the community.Comparison table
| Keywords | China | London Chinatown |
|---|---|---|
| Decorations | Red lanterns, banners, couplets | Red lanterns, banners, cutouts of zodiac animals |
| Food | Dumplings, rice cakes, fish | Street food, traditional Chinese dishes |
| Activities | Family reunion dinners, fireworks, temple visits | Parade, music, dance, street performers |
| Superstitions | Red is a lucky color, avoid cleaning on the first day of the new year | Avoid breaking things, giving gifts of clocks or shoes |
Conclusion
In conclusion, Chinese New Year is an important and loved festival in China. It is celebrated with traditions and customs that have been passed down for generations. Superstitions play a big role and people prepare for the new year by cleaning their homes, decorating, and feasting on traditional foods. In recent times, the festival has become commercialized with shopping sprees and performances. The London Chinatown Chinese New Year is a world-renowned celebration that offers unique experiences for locals and tourists alike.When Is Chinese New Year 2018 Celebrated:
An Introduction to Chinese New Year 2018:
Chinese New Year, also known as the Lunar New Year, Spring Festival, or simply the Chinese New Year, is the most important traditional holiday in China. It is celebrated at the turn of the lunar calendar year, which usually falls between January 21 and February 20.This coming year, 2018, marks the Year of the Dog according to the Chinese zodiac calendar. The celebration usually lasts for fifteen days, and includes observing traditions, giving gifts, and meeting with family and friends.Why Is Chinese New Year Celebrated?
The holiday is celebrated as a way to honor and clean out the homes for the new year, an opportunity to remember and pay respects to departed ancestors as well as welcome prosperity and fortune into one's life. According to legend, there was a fierce monster named Nian that would come down from the mountains to attack villages once every year. People soon realized that the monster had a fear of red and loud noises, and would prepare accordingly. The tradition of fireworks emerged as a way to scare away the monster, and eating dumplings and rice cake became popular as it was believed that doing so would ward off bad luck.When Is Chinese New Year 2018?
Chinese New Year falls on February 16th in 2018, but the dates of the celebrations vary every year. The event always starts on the first day of the lunar calendar (which is also known as “lunar new year” or “Chinese new year”) and lasts for about 15 days. It is widely celebrated across East Asia and has since expanded to other regions where a significant population of Chinese people resides.The Importance of Preparation
Preparation takes place in advance of the celebration. This is a time for families to clean the house thoroughly as they are bidding farewell to any misfortune that may have plagued them in the outgoing year. They decorate their homes using red lanterns, banners, coins and paper-cut-outs around the house.Reunion Dinner
On New Year’s eve, family members get together and enjoy a reunion dinner. It is an important time for many people as they believe sharing meals will bring luck and happiness to their family. The reunion dinner is often the most celebrated meal during the Chinese New Year.Important Traditions
The Lion Dance and Dragon Dance, two customary dances, take place all over China during the Chinese New Year. Watching or participating in lion and dragon dances are thought to bring good luck and fortune to the Chinese community.Additionally, giving gifts to friends and family in lucky red envelopes known as hongbao and placing red scrolls with auspicious messages or quotes on the door-post of your home brings further luck.Wrap Up
In conclusion, preparation and observance of important traditions are key when it comes to celebrating Chinese New Year 2018. As we embark on the Year of the Dog, make sure to share in the festivities with friends and family alike, wishing them well in the coming year.When Is Chinese New Year 2018 Celebrated?
Chinese New Year is one of the world’s most significant celebrations, an ancient and colorful festival that dates back more than 4,000 years. Also known as the Spring Festival, it is the most important event on the Chinese calendar and is celebrated by millions of people across the globe. Marking the end of winter and the beginning of spring, this fascinating event brings together people of all ages, ethnicities, and backgrounds to celebrate the passing of the old year and the start of something new.
The date of Chinese New Year is based on the lunar calendar, rather than the western solar calendar, and this means that its exact date can vary from year to year. In general, however, Chinese New Year falls between late January and mid-February, according to the phases of the moon. This year, 2018, Chinese New Year will be celebrated on Friday, February 16th.
Preparations for Chinese New Year often begin weeks or even months in advance. Houses are cleaned from top to bottom, and traditional decorations such as paper lanterns, red banners, and auspicious ornaments are hung up to create a festive atmosphere. Families gather together to enjoy special foods and traditional Chinese delicacies, including dumplings, fish, and other seafood. Many people also buy new clothes or shoes to wear on New Year’s Day, believing that this will bring them good luck for the year ahead.
Chinese New Year is about more than just feasting, of course. It is also a time for personal reflection, for giving thanks for the blessings of the past year, and for making plans and resolutions for the coming year. The festival is steeped in symbolism, with each day and activity having its own special meaning.
The first day of the festival is often dominated by loud, explosive firecrackers which are believed to scare off evil spirits and bring good luck. On the second day, married women return to their parents’ homes to celebrate with their families, a tradition known as “going back to the mother’s home,” while the third day is traditionally a time for visiting friends and family, particularly those who may have been missed on the first two days.
Throughout the extended holiday period - which may last up to 15 days in some places - people participate in a wide range of festive activities and events. These can include dragon and lion dances, temple fairs, decorative lantern shows, and even flower markets, where visitors can purchase traditional Chinese blooms to decorate their homes.
If you’re considering taking part in Chinese New Year celebrations this year, there are many wonderful ways to get involved. In China, major cities such as Beijing, Shanghai, and Guangzhou host huge public events including costume parades, fireworks displays, and temple fairs. However, for a more authentic experience, many people prefer to spend this special holiday in smaller cities or rural areas, where traditions are still observed in full and local customs dominate.
Wherever you choose to celebrate Chinese New Year, you will be experiencing one of the world’s most fascinating and culturally enriching events. Whether you’re enjoying a sumptuous family meal, watching a colorful dragon dance, or simply joining the crowds at a vibrant temple market, the atmosphere is sure to be electric.
So why not join millions of people across the globe this February as we welcome the Year of the Dog and celebrate the start of something new?
Wishing all of our readers a happy, healthy and prosperous Year of the Dog!
When Is Chinese New Year 2018 Celebrated?
What is Chinese New Year?
Chinese New Year, also known as Spring Festival or Lunar New Year, is the most important traditional festival in China. It is a time for families to get together, feast on traditional foods, exchange gifts and red envelopes of money, and participate in various cultural activities. The date of Chinese New Year varies every year, depending on the lunar calendar.
When is Chinese New Year 2018?
Chinese New Year 2018 falls on Friday, February 16th according to the Gregorian calendar, but it is celebrated from February 15th (New Year's Eve) to February 21st (Lantern Festival) based on the lunar calendar.
Why does the date of Chinese New Year change every year?
The date of Chinese New Year is determined by the lunar calendar, which follows the cycles of the moon. The lunar calendar consists of 12 months of 29 or 30 days each, adding up to about 354 days per year. To align with the solar calendar, which has 365 days per year, an extra month is added every few years. Therefore, the date of Chinese New Year can fall anywhere between January 21st and February 20th in the Gregorian calendar.
How is Chinese New Year celebrated?
Chinese New Year is marked by several customary traditions, such as:
- Cleaning the house and decorating it with red couplets and lanterns
- Reuniting with family members and having a feast on New Year's Eve
- Giving red envelopes (with money inside) to children and unmarried adults as a symbol of good luck and blessings
- Watching lion dance performances and setting off fireworks
- Wearing new clothes and eating traditional foods such as dumplings, fish, and rice cake
- Visiting relatives and friends, and exchanging greetings and blessings (such as gong xi fa cai - wishing you prosperity)
These traditions vary across different regions and families, but they all aim to bring good luck, health, and happiness for the coming year.