While 1.4 billion people in China celebrate Chinese New Year, it’s important to note that Lunar New Year festivities are simultaneously held worldwide. Discover the food, fun, and festivities lined up for the annual Lunar New Year.
It’s a tradition for Chinese families to come together for the Lunar New Year, but the pandemic has affected many people’s journeys home. Here, we follow the stories of four hardworking Chinese residents: to find out what the Spring Festival means for them, and how they intend to celebrate it this 2022: to go home to their loved ones or remain where they are to fulfil their work.
Relive “The Great Race”: the origin of the Chinese zodiac and learn how the 12 signs influence our everyday lives: relationships, wealth, family, and careers. Read up on what the Year of the Tiger has in store for you and find out what Tigers can do to remedy their “Ben Ming Nian” status.
Whether celebrating at a fancy restaurant or with loved ones at home, a proper Lunar New Year celebration always involves gastronomical delights. The reunion dinner is the biggest dinner of the year. In this story, we learn how a hotel chef makes reunion dinners extra special—not just for patrons, but also for his colleagues. Next, we visit a home that makes preparing for New Year’s Eve a family affair.
Lucky red envelopes—or “hongbao”—are a Chinese New Year staple. But did you know that this tradition sprung from a demon that loved to terrorize children? We take a look at the legend that started it all and learn the correct etiquette in distributing hongbaos—from who should be giving them, when they are to be given, to why one should never insert money containing the number “4.”
For nearly 40 years, watching the annual Spring Festival gala (“Chunwan”) has become a tradition for Chinese families. But while the show never has a shortage of stars—from comedians to musicians, and acrobats to magicians—the Spring Festival would not be possible without the efforts of select individuals who ensure that the show runs smoothly. Watch how some of the 1,000 Chunwan staff members prep for this year’s show.
Lunar New Year celebrations come with their own set of unique customs and rituals. It can be a bit overwhelming for those unfamiliar: When should we clean our house? What should we eat? Why should we light lanterns on the 15th day? We break down the eight key traditions to keep in mind as we usher in the Year of the Tiger.
