Chinese New Years History:
Chinese New Years, for non-Chinese descendants, is one of those things you’ve heard about but until you actually look into doesn’t really pop into your head. The festival is single handedly responsible for the greatest people migration of the world, involving not only China but those surrounding; such as Japan, Korea and Vietnam. It’s a time bringing family and friends together for a celebration that can last up to 15 days. The festival involves being loud and proud with the nation-wide traits of cleaning and giving. A day prior to the New Year it is common to find Chinese families across the country giving their house one last clean. This is to signify the sweeping out of bad spirits from the previous year in an attempt to make way for future good luck. In terms of giving, married members of each family would hand down money in red envelopes to those junior members, a tradition that has been mimicked for centuries. Businesses also copy this tradition in a way, giving their employees bonuses and paying off owing debts in full belief that the new year will bring prosperity.
It is said that in ancient times there was once a demonic spirit known as Nian who on the turn of each year would come to eat young kids and cause havoc to the villages of China. However, one year when the people decided to hide, an old man remained in the village to confront the demon. Later pronounced a deity the crazy man to the people placed red banners across the entire village while also setting off fireworks to make noise. When the people came back the town had been untouched. From that day forth it was believed that noise and celebrations were the demons fear. This is why Chinese New Year to this very day involves being loud and festive. If you’re looking for a good time or even a day to just shout out loud the opportunity is at your very feet. Chinese New Year’s is wide spread with those of large Chinese communities in Europe and Northern America bringing the festivity there.
Now to the planning:
With all this information the question to ask is when’s the best time to go? As I said at the start Chinese New Year is not restricted to one day. The turn of the year is a major highlight, however for the full in-depth experience let yourself have two to almost three weeks off. Do your research, celebrations for the Chinese New Year commence on the 8th day of the Lunar calendar. This day, known as Bodhi Day by the Buddhists, marks the entrance to the New Year. On this day a traditional porridge known as Laba is served in remembrance of the ancient festival La. From there to the immediate days preceding is a time of crazy rushes as stores sell out on all things red and excitement builds up for a major event. In all fairness place the new year on your bucket list. It truly is a festival like never before full of life and excitement. If you can’t make it to China be assured that there is somewhat a festival near you for wherever you may be. And if all else fails just mess around and find out what your spirit animal is. This year is the Pig, my year is the Tiger, it can be somewhat a time passer.
Charterwind can charter you to China to come face to face with the marvelous Chinese tradition, Just send a quick email to sales@charterwind.com or call us on +1-844-FLY-WIND (359-9463) for more information.