Lunar New Year

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While it may feel like we just had a new year, there is another one coming up to celebrate: the Lunar New Year! Also known as Chinese New Year, this celebration is based on the lunar calendar. Listed below are some fun trivia facts about the Lunar New Year, and some reading and program recommendations.


  1. The Lunar New Year, also known as Chinese New Year or Spring Festival, is based on the lunar calendar. It usually falls between January 21 and February 20, varying each year.

  2. The Lunar New Year is associated with one of the 12 Chinese zodiac animals. Each year is linked to a specific animal, and 2024, for example, is the Year of the Dragon.

  3. It is a time for family reunions and is considered the most important traditional festival in Chinese culture. People travel long distances to be with their families during this period.

  4. It's a tradition to give and receive red envelopes, known as "hongbao" in Mandarin. These packets usually contain money and are given for good luck and blessings.

  5. The celebration lasts for 15 days, culminating in the Lantern Festival. Lanterns of various shapes and sizes are displayed, and there are often parades and other festive events.

  6. Cleaning and decorating the house are common practices before the Lunar New Year. It is believed to sweep away bad luck and make room for good fortune.

  7. Special foods are prepared for the festivities, each with symbolic meanings. For example, dumplings represent wealth and prosperity, and fish symbolizes abundance.

  8. Fireworks and dragon dances are integral to the celebrations, believed to ward off evil spirits. The loud noises and vibrant colors are thought to bring good luck.

  9. While traditionally associated with China, the Lunar New Year is celebrated by millions of people around the world, especially in East and Southeast Asia.

  10. According to Chinese mythology, the Lunar New Year traditions are said to have originated from the need to scare away a mythical beast called "Nian" that would come on the first day of the new year to eat livestock, crops, and even people.


Want to learn more about the lunar calendar and the Chinese zodiac? Consider attending our program, The Chinese Zodiac and You!


Recommended reading for children:


Happy Chinese New Year!: A Festive Counting Story by Jannie Ho


The Night Before Lunar New Year by Natasha Wing


How to Catch a Dragon by Adam Wallace


Friends Are Friends, Forever by Dane Liu


Chloe's Lunar New Year by Lily LaMotte

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