Chinese Lunar New Year and Zodiac
by Mai Pader Vang
Luner New Year originated 4,000 years ago. This holiday is usually celebrated between January 21 and February 20, according to the Western calendar, but varies depending on culture. These events begin during the first new moon and don’t end until the first moon is over, 15 days (about 2 weeks) later. This event celebrates the new year and the beginning of spring. It is typically celebrated by China and other Asian countries.
Many events and traditions happen during these days. At home, families decorate with red paper to express wishes for a new year, shopping, sweeping the house to remove any bad luck and most importantly the reunion dinner with families. The last Day is called the Lantern Festival, in which food like tangyuan, or sweet glutinous rice balls are served, and children carry lanterns around to symbolize the end of the celebration.
