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Chinese New Year: Your ultimate guide to traditions and festivities

Chinese lanterns Photo: Kevin Vision / unsplash

Thanks to the tens of millions of Chinese immigrants who have spread out across the world, few festivals are as globally recognised as Chinese New Year.

The celebration, which marks the end of winter and beginning of spring, is based on the lunar calendar. It takes place whenever the new moon appears between 21 January and 20 February, and is known for its colourful parades, famous myths, and delicious feasts.

It is also sometimes known as the Spring Festival, Lunar New Year celebration, or Chinese Lunar Festival.

If you’re planning a China adventure and want to be in the country for the celebrations, or simply want to know more than whether you’re a dog, monkey, or dragon, then check out our guide to Chinese New Year!

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What’s the story behind Chinese New Year?

Chinese New Year has its origins in the tale of the monster Nian, who would attack people and livestock on the eve of the new year. However, people learned the monster was afraid of bright lights, loud noises, and the colour red – which explains why those who celebrate share money and gifts via red envelopes.

Of course, there are plenty of other myths and stories associated with this auspicious time, and while it isn’t important to know about all of them before you visit China, having some background information can make your trip that much better.

The festival generally lasts 15 days, and the end of the festivities is marked by the Lantern Festival, which is a public holiday in China and across many other Asian countries. On this day, children head out with their lanterns and try to solve riddles that are written on them. Aside from the fun activities, the celebration also means plenty of stunning lights filling the night sky.

Why is Chinese New Year on a different day every year?

Because Chinese New Year festivities are based on a lunar calendar, the date changes every year on the Gregorian calendar that we generally use in the west. With that said, the date is consistent if you’re sticking to the lunar calendar – it’s all a matter of perspective. So, make sure you plan the dates of your ultimate China itinerary properly so you don’t miss out on celebrations!

What do Chinese people do to celebrate Chinese New Year?

While there are plenty of different ways in which those who celebrate Chinese New Year like to enjoy the festival, there are some common themes.

Most of those celebrating will set off firecrackers and have lavish reunion dinners with their families, bringing everyone together at the table. There is also the setting off of fireworks, and public celebrations like parades for everyone to get involved in. During these events, groups form together to engage in famous dances, like the Lion dance and the Dragon dance. The images of these groups dancing under a huge costume is one of the most famous associated with the celebrations – and those who design the dragons and lions are not afraid to get creative.

Other traditions include cleaning the house (but only before the first day of celebrations), decorating your home with red items, and giving younger people red envelopes full of cash to ward off bad spirits. More traditional activities include offering sacrifices to ancestors.

With that all said, each person celebrating will do so in their own unique manner. So, don’t worry about being authentic: just jump into the fun!

Chinese lanterns

Image source:Lisanto / unsplash

China is a vast country with countless unique cultures that you can learn about while there, but there are some Chinese New Year superstitions that are consistent across all the celebrations, whether they’re taking place in Beijing, Hong Kong, or even Europe.

Not washing clothes is an important one, as is not cleaning once celebrations begin, as it is believed all the good luck will be scrubbed away.

Avoiding the number four is also widespread, as it sounds similar to the word for “death” in Mandarin. Black and white are also to be avoided, with red given lots of prominence thanks to its ability to banish the monster Nian.

Additionally, those still in bed aren’t supposed to receive the traditional Chinese New Year greetings, as it can be seen as bad luck. Needles, knives, and scissors are also to be used sparingly, as they can cut or stab through luck – so no haircuts or sewing old clothes!

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When is Chinese New Year?

In 2025, Chinese New Year begins on 29 January. It is always on the first day that the new moon appears between 21 January and 29 February.

How long does Chinese New Year last in 2025?

Chinese New Year in 2025 will last for 15 days, ending with the Lantern Festival on Wednesday February 12.

What animal is Lunar New Year 2025?

2025 is the year of the snake, moving on from the year of the dragon. The cycle of animals repeats every 12 years, so the last time it was the year of the snake was all the way back in 2013.

What is considered bad luck on Chinese New Year’s day?

On Chinese New Year’s day, there are a few things that could be considered bad luck. Urging someone out of bed is frowned upon, as is using a pair of scissors or a knife. Sweeping is also considered bad luck.

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