Happy Lunar New Year to all of those celebrating!

Chinese New Year, also known as Spring Festival or Lunar New Year, is the most important traditional holiday in China. It marks the beginning of a new lunar calendar year and is celebrated by millions of people around the world, particularly in China, Vietnam, Singapore, and other countries with significant Chinese populations.

The celebration typically lasts for 15 days, starting on New Year’s Eve and ending on the 15th day of the first lunar month, also known as the Lantern Festival. During this time, families come together to share meals, exchange gifts, and participate in various traditional activities.

One of the most important aspects of Chinese New Year is the reunion dinner, a large feast held on New Year’s Eve. This is a time for families to come together and enjoy a meal together, which often includes dishes such as dumplings, fish, and rice cakes – the X1 team were treated to a delicious lunchtime spread of these traditional treats to enjoy on the day!

Another important tradition is the exchange of red envelopes filled with money, which is given to children and unmarried adults by older family members as a way to wish them good luck and prosperity in the new year.

Decorations, such as red lanterns and banners with auspicious phrases, are also an important part of the celebrations. Red is considered a lucky colour in Chinese culture, and is believed to ward off evil spirits and bring good luck.

Celebrations in London, 2023

The Chinese New Year is also marked by a series of traditional customs and activities, such as the lion and dragon dances, which are performed to bring good luck and drive away evil spirits.

In addition to these traditional customs, many people also take part in modern celebrations, such as fireworks displays and parades. The Chinese New Year is a time for joy and celebration, and is a great opportunity to come together with family and friends to welcome in the new year.

In conclusion, Chinese New Year is a time of joy, celebration, and tradition. It is a time for families to come together, exchange gifts, and participate in various traditional customs and activities. It is an important festival that is celebrated by millions of people around the world, and it is a time to wish for good luck, prosperity, and happiness in the new year.

We asked some of our X1 staff to discuss what Lunar New Year means to them, as well to share some of their favourite memories in previous celebrations, watch the video below to find out more!