Discover The Dates And Traditions Of Chinese New Year 2017: Mark Your Calendar!
Are you curious about when Chinese New Year 2017 is celebrated? Let’s delve deeper into this festive occasion that is celebrated by millions around the world.
The Chinese New Year, also known as the Lunar New Year and Spring Festival, falls on different dates each year as it follows the lunar calendar. This year, it will be celebrated on January 28th, 2017.
Have you ever wondered why the Chinese New Year’s date changes each year? It is because it is based on the lunar calendar which is determined by the cycle of the moon phases, unlike the Gregorian calendar, which is based on the sun.
Chinese New Year is not only celebrated in China, but in many other countries as well. In fact, it is celebrated in over 20 countries including Indonesia, Malaysia, Philippines, Vietnam, and even in some parts of the United States!
To prepare for this grand event, do you know what the Chinese do a month before Chinese New Year’s Day? They start spring cleaning their homes! This is to signify getting rid of old things and making way for new beginnings.
One important tradition during Chinese New Year is the reunion dinner, where families gather to have a feast together on New Year’s Eve. This symbolizes family unity and happiness.
During Chinese New Year, the color red can be seen everywhere, from decorations to clothing. Did you know that red is considered an auspicious color in Chinese culture because it is believed to ward off evil spirits?
If you’re thinking of giving gifts during Chinese New Year, make sure to avoid buying clocks or other time-related items. Why? In Chinese culture, it is believed that these kinds of gifts bring about negative meanings such as running out of time or the end of something.
Another common practice during Chinese New Year is giving red envelopes filled with money to children or unmarried relatives. This is believed to bring good luck and fortune.
Did you know that each year is associated with one of the twelve zodiac animals in Chinese culture? 2017 is the Year of the Rooster, which symbolizes hard work, resourcefulness, and confidence.
In conclusion, Chinese New Year is more than just a celebration – it is steeped in rich cultural traditions and practices. Whether you are celebrating with friends and family, or simply interested in learning more about this festive occasion, make sure to mark January 28th on your calendar and enjoy the festivities!
"When Is Chinese New Year 2017 Celebrated" ~ bbaz
When Is Chinese New Year 2017 Celebrated?
The Chinese New Year is one of the biggest annual events not only in China but also in other countries with a significant Chinese population, such as Taiwan, Hong Kong, Singapore, and Malaysia. This event is celebrated on the first day of the Lunar calendar and is also known as the Spring Festival. Generally, it is celebrated between January 21 and February 20, and in 2017, it falls on January 28.
The Zodiac Animal of 2017
The Chinese have a unique method of tracking time that involves a twelve-year cycle represented by animals: rat, ox, tiger, rabbit, dragon, snake, horse, goat/sheep, monkey, rooster, dog, and pig. The year 2017 is the year of the Rooster. According to Chinese horoscope experts, people born in the Year of the Rooster, either in 1945, 1957, 1969, 1981, 1993, or 2005 are honest, hardworking, and confident. However, they could also be vain and bossy.
The History and Significance of the Chinese New Year
The Chinese New Year dates back thousands of years ago. It started during the Shang Dynasty, and the festivities consisted mainly of praying to deities and ancestors for a good harvest and a prosperous year. Throughout the years, this event has evolved into a way to honor family traditions, show gratitude, and spend time with family and friends. The Chinese see the New Year as a fresh start and an opportunity to cleanse themselves of bad luck by cleaning their home and wearing new clothes.
Customs and Traditions of the Chinese New Year
One popular tradition during the Chinese New Year is exchanging red envelopes filled with money. These envelopes, called hongbao in Mandarin and lai see in Cantonese, are given to children by their elders as a way to wish them good luck for the year. Another custom is eating dumplings or jiaozi, which symbolizes wealth and prosperity. Furthermore, many Chinese decorate their homes with red lanterns, calligraphy, and Chinese knots, wishing for peace, happiness, and good fortune.
The Celebrations and Festivities of the Chinese New Year
The Chinese New Year celebrations are grand and usually last for fifteen days. The festivities begin on the eve of the Chinese New Year, known as Chuxi, with families gathering for a feast, usually containing traditional dishes like fish and dumplings. At midnight, fireworks light up the sky, and people would set off firecrackers to scare away evil spirits and create a jubilant atmosphere.
The following day, the New Year's Day, people dress in new clothes and visit their relatives and friends, bringing along gifts and well wishes. In some regions, dragon dances and lion dances are performed to bring good luck and fortune to the communities. The fifteenth day of the Chinese New Year is called Yuanxiao Festival, also known as the Lantern Festival. People hang colorful lanterns, enjoy sweet glutinous rice balls, and take part in fun activities such as solving riddles.
Conclusion
The Chinese New Year is a vital event that symbolizes new beginnings, hope, and unity. It is not only celebrated in China but also in many parts of the world, demonstrating the significant impact of Chinese culture on the global stage. With its rich history, customs, and traditions, the Chinese New Year serves as a cultural ambassador not only for China but also for the rest of the world.
Chinese New Year 2017 vs. Western New Year: A Comparison
Introduction
New Year is an exciting time to celebrate across the globe, but different countries and cultures celebrate at different times. While the majority of the world celebrates on January 1st, according to the Western calendar, Chinese New Year is celebrated on a different date each year. In 2017, Chinese New Year falls on January 28th.The History of Chinese New Year
Chinese New Year, also known as Spring Festival, has a history dating back thousands of years. It originated during the Shang Dynasty (1600-1046 BC) and is said to have started as a way to ward off a mythical beast named Nian, who would come and terrorize people on the eve of the new year. Traditionally, Chinese New Year celebrations last for 15 days, ending on the day of the Lantern Festival.Dates of Celebration
As mentioned, Chinese New Year falls on a different date each year. It's based on the lunar calendar, with the date changing based on the phases of the moon. The holiday always falls between January 21st and February 20th. In comparison, Western New Year is always celebrated on January 1st.Table Comparison of Dates
| Chinese New Year 2017 | Western New Year 2017 |
|---|---|
| January 28th | January 1st |
Preparations
Preparations for Chinese New Year often start well in advance of the holiday. Families will clean their homes to rid them of any bad luck from the previous year, and hang red lanterns and decorations around their homes. In comparison, Western New Year celebrations typically involve resolutions for the upcoming year and perhaps some party planning.Opinion on Preparations
While both holidays involve preparations, there's something special about the way that Chinese New Year is celebrated. The act of preparing your home and surroundings for a fresh start can be a powerful and meaningful experience.Traditional Foods
Chinese New Year is known for its traditional foods, which are believed to bring good luck and prosperity in the new year. Some of the most popular foods include dumplings, fish, and rice cakes. Western New Year doesn't have traditional foods in the same way as Chinese New Year.Opinion on Traditional Foods
Both holidays have their own unique food customs. However, Chinese New Year's emphasis on specific foods that bring good luck and prosperity is a lovely tradition to uphold.Red Envelopes
One of the cherished traditions of Chinese New Year is the giving of red envelopes filled with money. Typically, older family members or married couples will give envelopes to younger family members or children. Western New Year does not have this custom.Opinion on Red Envelopes
The practice of red envelopes is an excellent example of how traditions can carry love and good fortune. While it's not practical to adopt this tradition into Western New Year customs, the concept of gift-giving remains essential during the holiday season.Celebrations
Chinese New Year celebrations often involve family reunions, fireworks displays, and dragon and lion dances. Western New Year typically involves parties with friends or family.Opinion on Celebrations
While both holidays can hold lively celebrations, Chinese New Year's focus on family and tradition is a beautiful thing. The emphasis on bringing generations together is heartwarming and unforgettable.Conclusion
In conclusion, both Chinese New Year and Western New Year have their traditions and customs to honor the new year. However, recognizing how other cultures celebrate can promote diversity and understanding, and make the holidays a much richer experience. So, whether you're celebrating on January 1st or January 28th, take the time to appreciate the traditions, customs, and people that make these celebrations so special.When Is Chinese New Year 2017 Celebrated?
Chinese New Year, also known as the Spring Festival, is one of the most important festivals in Chinese culture. It is celebrated on the first day of the Chinese lunar calendar, which usually falls between January 21 and February 20. In 2017, Chinese New Year will be celebrated on January 28.
Why is Chinese New Year Celebrated?
Chinese New Year is a time to honor ancestors and deities, reunite with family and friends, and reflect on the past year. The festival is steeped in tradition and legend, with many customs and rituals observed to bring luck, prosperity, and happiness in the new year.
Preparations for Chinese New Year
Preparations for Chinese New Year usually begin several weeks in advance. Families clean their homes thoroughly to get rid of any bad luck from the previous year and to make way for good luck in the new year. Red lanterns and decorations are put up, symbolizing good fortune and happiness. People also buy new clothes, especially in shades of red and gold, which are considered lucky colors.
The Reunion Dinner
On the eve of Chinese New Year, families gather for a reunion dinner. This is considered the most important meal of the year, and it is an opportunity for families to share a festive feast and catch up with each other. It is said that if you eat fish during the reunion dinner, you will have prosperity in the coming year.
Fireworks and Lion Dances
Fireworks and lion dances are an important part of Chinese New Year celebrations. Fireworks are set off to ward off evil spirits, while lion dances are performed to bring good luck and fortune. People also give out red envelopes containing money to children during this time, representing good wishes for the new year.
The Lantern Festival
Chinese New Year celebrations officially end with the Lantern Festival on the fifteenth day of the lunar calendar. People release red lanterns into the sky or set them afloat on water, symbolizing letting go of the old and welcoming the new. It is a time for families to enjoy sweet glutinous rice balls called tangyuan, a traditional food associated with the festival.
Conclusion
Chinese New Year is a time of joy, celebration, and tradition. Whether you are Chinese or not, it is a great opportunity to learn about and participate in a rich cultural heritage.
So mark your calendars and get ready to ring in the Year of the Rooster in 2017!
When Is Chinese New Year 2017 Celebrated?
Chinese New Year, also known as Lunar New Year, is celebrated by the Chinese community around the world. This celebration falls on the first day of the lunar calendar, which usually happens between January 21 to February 20. However, the exact date changes annually as it follows the cycles of the moon.
The Chinese follow a unique way of counting years based on the zodiac. Each year is assigned to one of the twelve animals that appear on the Chinese zodiac calendar. The zodiac animals follow a twelve-year cycle, and 2017 is the Year of the Rooster.
This Chinese New Year will begin on January 28, 2017, where families gather for reunions, exchange red envelopes with money, feast on traditional foods, and set off fireworks to ward off evil spirits. Celebrations can last up to 15 days, with each day having its significance. Here's how Chinese New Year is celebrated in different parts of the world:
China
China is the birthplace of Chinese New Year, and hence, it holds a special place in the heart of Chinese people worldwide. It is celebrated with great zeal and enthusiasm throughout the country. It is one of the most significant traditional festivals in China that brings families together.
The festivities include lighting of lanterns, dragon and lion dances, firework displays, and a lot more. People clean their homes before the arrival of the new year to get rid of bad luck and welcome good fortune. Red decorations and couplets are pasted on windows and doors to usher in happiness and prosperity.
Taiwan
Like China, Taiwan celebrates Chinese New Year on a grand scale. It is a time for families to reunite and enjoy traditional foods. Popular delicacies include dumplings, tangyuan, and niangao. Children receive red envelopes from their elders as a token of good luck.
The Lantern Festival marks the end of Chinese New Year in Taiwan, where thousands of lanterns are lit and released into the sky. The Pingxi Lantern Festival in Taipei is one of the most famous events.
Singapore
Singapore's Chinatown is famous for its Chinese New Year celebrations. The streets are beautifully decorated with vibrant lanterns, and there are various festivities such as lion dance performances, bazaars, and other cultural activities. Visitors can enjoy scrumptious festive foods like yusheng, bak kwa, and pineapple tarts.
Malaysia
Chinese New Year is celebrated by the Chinese community in Malaysia, and it is known as 'Tahun Baru Cina.' Houses are decorated with red paper cuttings, and traditional foods such as tang yuan, nian gao, and dumplings are served.
One unique aspect of Chinese New Year in Malaysia is the open house tradition, where people from all races and religions are welcomed into homes to share meals, enjoy cultural performances and exchange greetings.
United States of America
The Chinese New Year is also widely celebrated in the United States of America with great excitement. San Francisco's Chinatown hosts one of the most significant parades outside Asia. Dragon dances, lion dances, and fireworks are highlights of the Chinatown parade.
Other cities that celebrate Chinese New Year with grandeur are New York, Los Angeles, Boston, and Seattle, to name a few.
In conclusion, Chinese New Year is celebrated worldwide by the Chinese community, and each country has its unique way of commemorating the festival. No matter where you are, it is an excellent opportunity for families to come together and strengthen their bond.
So mark your calendars for January 28, 2017, and join in the festivities.
Gong Xi Fa Cai!
Thank you for reading our article on When Is Chinese New Year 2017 Celebrated. We hope you learned something new and enjoyed discovering the significance of this worldwide celebration. Join us next year for more informative and exciting articles!
When Is Chinese New Year 2017 Celebrated?
What is Chinese New Year?
Chinese New Year, also known as the Spring Festival, is the most important festival in China. It is celebrated at the turn of the lunar calendar and marks the end of winter and the beginning of spring. The celebration lasts for 15 days and is full of traditional customs and activities.
When is Chinese New Year 2017?
Chinese New Year 2017 falls on Saturday, January 28th. It is the year of the Rooster according to the Chinese zodiac. The celebrations start on the evening of January 27th and end on February 11th.
Why does Chinese New Year fall on a different date each year?
Chinese New Year follows the lunar calendar, which is based on the cycles of the moon. Unlike the Gregorian calendar, which is used in the West, the lunar calendar has only 354 days in a year. To make up for this deficiency, an extra month is added every few years, which means that the date of Chinese New Year changes every year.
How do people celebrate Chinese New Year?
Chinese New Year is a time for family reunions, feasting, and launching fireworks. People decorate their homes with red lanterns and Chinese couplets for good luck. They also clean their homes thoroughly before the New Year to sweep away any bad luck and make room for good fortune. On New Year's Eve, families gather together for a big feast, called the reunion dinner, and stay up late to watch the CCTV New Year's Gala on TV. During the 15-day celebration, people also visit relatives and friends, exchange red envelopes containing money as a gift, and watch the dragon and lion dances.
Is Chinese New Year a public holiday?
Yes, Chinese New Year is a public holiday in China, Hong Kong, Macau, Taiwan, Singapore, Malaysia, Indonesia, and some other countries with large Chinese populations. It is also celebrated by Chinese communities around the world.
Conclusion
Chinese New Year is a time for joy, family, and tradition. It is a celebration of new beginnings and the hope for prosperity and happiness in the coming year. Don't forget to wish your Chinese friends and colleagues Happy New Year and xin nian kuai le!