To one and all who celebrate this time of year, “Happy Chinese Lunar New Year!” a finely dressed dinner guest wished me just a few hours ago. And she was also curious about the use of animals and why would this Chinese New Year be the year of the Black or Water Dragon? (Black is the symbolic colour of water in Chinese Astrology). In 2012, the Chinese Lunar New Year begins on the 23rd of January. Wishing everyone a Very Happy and Tremedously Prosperous Year. By the way, I usually reinforce my resolve for my New Year’s Resolutions at this time…
Chinese New Year, An Ancient Tradition
Chinese New Year Celebration Dragon Dance
Well, hang in there and I’ll tell you a little history….
The traditions of the Chinese New Year celebrated in modern times officially dates back to an awe inspiring 4709 years ago. This was the time of the legendary Yellow Emperor of China. It was he who reorganized even older traditions into the familiar celebrations today.
But did you know there are actually 2 observed Chinese New Year dates? The popular one is of course the Chinese Lunar New Year. Its date varies with the start of the 3rd new moon or tiger month which is between mid-January and late February. This is based on ancient agricultural practices, which is the start of spring date. Then there is the Solar or Hsia calendar on either February 4th or 5th and is used for astrological calculations.
This year according to the current astrological cycle, is the year of the Water Dragon. The Dragon is the most respected creature in the Chinese pantheon of mythological creation which is full of meaning and symbols. The Dragon is considered the most powerful animal but also the extremely lucky if you are its friend. Astrologically this Lunar Water Dragon Year begins on exact new moon time at 15:40 on 23-Jan-12 in China’s time zone.
The celebrations can last 15 days if one so wish. Filial piety dictates that the 1st day is devoted to the husband’s family and the 2nd day to the wife’s. But there really are many more reasons to celebrate these 15 festive days. On the last day, families that can, get together for one last great meal before returning to their endeavours. One interesting tradition introduced by the Han Dynasty over 2,000 years ago was to carry lanterns this full moon night of the 15th so that you can make yourself known to heaven and family, whom you shared the Shan Yuan, a sticky rice-cake with fillings with.
Of course, with time, other more colourful activities and legends have been added. Today, who can do without the famous God of Wealth and other gods or deities who symbolize the aspirations of the people? Gifts of money in red packets for children and loved ones is one of the most popular traditions. During this period, Chinese Temples are usually packed with worshippers offering prayers with gifts of money, sweet cakes and fruits to celebrate the coming year’s good fortune.
Traditions Observed In Modern Times
Travel agents know that the Chinese New Year sets off the largest annual human migration in history. About 250 million Chinese all over the world (mostly in China) travel home and return to work after their celebrations of filial piety. It goes something like this: A father or a mother or even unmarried children of a family travel to a city or a country far away to work and earn as much money as possible. Then during this Chinese New Year Period, they generally try to come home to observe and pay homage to their origins, aka Mum and Dad. But it is also common for a wider observation of tradition where a married couple’s family also travels to the husband’s family to continue this ancient social tradition.
Many cities around the world now have significant Chinese populations, and hence influence. The celebrations and commerce in some malls like the Pacific Mall in Markham, a city near Toronto in Canada many restaurants will attest to its significance. Go to countries like Singapore, Malaysia or even the Chinatowns of San Francisco or Vancouver and you will see and experience the many fun things that are still practiced today.
Watch out for the lion dances that drums and dance to bring luck to everyone who watch. There will be parades or even entertainment. Children often come out to greet their elders just to get their little red packets of money which has become a common practice. This was once a gift of seeds to get ready for the spring time planting. You see, in ancient times, seeds equal food equals wealth. Come on out and celebrate too. There is always something for everyone during these festivities. You will always be welcome.
More from BizMum
BizMum Recommends
- The Twelve Days of Christmas begins on December 25 until January 5th (verenetta)
- European Eco-Trend of the Week: The Copenhagen Fashion Summit (U.S. Green Technology)
Great Year to you!
ProfitsOn recently posted..Short term trading: ++GBP/USD, Jan. 24/12
Great Prosperity to you too!
I like the chinese culture. They have a lot of fascinating things that used to happen in their ancient traditions and it amazes me how they hold tight on them. It is a beautiful country.