By Alexandra Casalaspro
Lunar New Year is a widely popular secular holiday traditionally celebrated in Asian countries. Today, it is celebrated all throughout the world. Although it is commonly referred to as “Chinese New Year '' this holiday is substantial to many East Asian countries as well. These include South Korea, Vietnam, Singapore, Tibet and more. The association of Lunar New Year with Chinese culture is due to its deep influence. Believed to have originated about 3,500 years ago, this holiday is embedded with many stories and myths. Traditionally this holiday was viewed as a time to honor ancestors, today it is seen as time to feast and spend with family. The holiday begins 15 days after the first full moon of the lunar calendar. But, as the cycles of the moon differ from year to year, the exact day changes. Every year a new animal sign is assigned, based on the Chinese zodiac cycle. This year is the year of the rabbit, and this means 2023 is predicted to be a year of hope. Typically, you will see Lunar New Year some time between January 21st and February 20th. Today this holiday is celebrated all around the world, not just in Asian countries, and we even saw decorations here at Carey.
The time before the lunar new year is taken very seriously. This means you can expect families to participate in a tradition called “sweeping of the grounds” about 10 days before the start of the new year. This custom includes thoroughly cleaning the house to remove any bad luck possibly plaguing the house. When New Year’s Eve and Day arrive you can always expect to see the most important celebrations, these typically being the family and religious traditions. However, this depends on the culture participating. On New Year’s Eve many activities will occur. Those participating will visit their ancestors' graves, have a family dinner and set off fireworks and firecrackers. Usually the celebrations happen until midnight as well. Another tradition seen on New Year’s Day is the exchanging of red envelopes between family members, which contain money. Other presents are sometimes exchanged as well. The end of Lunar New Year occurs with a huge celebration. This is called the “Lantern Festival” glowing lanterns are carried throughout the nighttime parade and good luck and prosperity is thought to be achieved from this celebration. The tradition of a dragon dance is seen here, something most people associate the lunar new year with. The Lunar New Year is a deeply cultural and widely celebrated holiday, quickly immersing itself into being celebrated in many countries.
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