One of the most important holidays in Chinese culture is the Chinese New Year, also known as the Spring Festival. It marks a season of rebirth, introspection, and family togetherness, and it signals the beginning of the lunar calendar.
In 2025, Chinese New Year lands on Wednesday, January 29th.
The customs and rituals observed during this festive period carry deep cultural and symbolic meanings, blending ancient traditions with modern practices.
Red plays a significant role during Chinese New Year celebrations, often adorning doors and windows as a symbol of wealth, happiness, and longevity. In Chinese tradition, red is considered a lucky color that attracts good fortune and wards off evil spirits.
Many families also participate in a [practice known as “sweeping the dust” in the days leading up to the holiday. This involves a thorough cleaning of the home to clear out bad luck and makespace for the blessings in the new upcoming year.
As part of this ritual, old items may be discarded, and homes are decorated with bright red banners, paper cutouts and symbols featuring lucky words.
“My family gathers for a family gathering the night before the new year, which is considered the most significant meal of the year.” says senior Olivia Leman. “Our table is filled with: dumplings, fried rice, sticky rice cakes and more!”
Each dish has its own symbolic meaning, often based on wordplay. For example, dumplings symbolize wealth due to their shape and rice cakes represent unity and prosperity.This meal is an opportunity for families to honor their traditions, celebrate the past year, and look forward to a bright new year ahead.
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