The Chinese New Year, also known as the Lunar New Year, begins on the new moon that appears between Jan. 21 and Feb. 20 every year — with this year’s falling on Feb. 5.
Seeing as next week marks the Year of the Pig, the Year of the Dog is swiftly coming to an end.
When is Chinese New Year in 2019?
This year, it takes place on Tuesday, Feb. 5. Celebrations and festivities begin the evening before the New Year up until the Lantern Festival, which is held on the 15th day of the year.
Traditionally, New Year’s Day is celebrated with fireworks and firecrackers to ward off evil spirits. People also use this day to pray to their ancestors, as they are treated like gods.
What is the animal for the Chinese New Year 2019?
This year marks the Year of the Pig, which is the 12th of all zodiac animals.
According to a myth, the Jade Emperor said the order would be decided by when each animal arrived to his party. The Pig was late because he overslept, putting him at No. 12. Personality traits of the pig include a gentle and accommodating personality. They have a calm appearance, a strong heart and are natural nurturers. However, their weaknesses include being somewhat naïve and too sensitive.
Facts about the Chinese New Year:
1. It is believed that the most fireworks in the world are set off that night.
2. Having children and passing down the family name is very important in Chinese culture. With all the family gatherings around the holiday, desperate single people in China have resorted to hiring fake boyfriends and girlfriends to bring home.
3. Every year has a different zodiac animal: rat, ox, tiger, rabbit, dragon, snake, horse, goat, monkey, rooster, dog and pig.
4. Your own zodiac year is considered your unluckiest year. In Chinese culture, embracing red is considered a weapon of defense against misfortune. Chinese families tend to fill their houses with red decorations.
5. One-sixth of the world’s population celebrate the Lunar New Year. Along with celebrations in China, it is also recognized in Hong Kong, Taiwan, Vietnam and Singapore. In recent years, festivities have occurred in London, Vancouver, Sydney and New York. In New York, a Lunar New Year Celebration is happening Feb. 9 at the New York Chinese Scholar’s Garden.
6. The few weeks of celebrations typically end with a Lantern Festival where families and friends put up lanterns or release them into the skies. The Lantern Festival falls on the night of the first full moon of the Chinese New Year.
7. Children are off from school throughout the entire holiday period, which sometimes lasts an entire month.
8. The Chinese New Year is also known as the “Spring Festival.”
Source from nypost