Swarthmore residents have celebrated Chinese New Year by making hand printed dragons. Delightful colours clipped together and decorated to make an image of a Chinese dragon. They were also able to taste a selection of Chinese starters such as spring rolls, prawn toast and Chinese crackers. An afternoon where residents came together to discuss the traditions and get creative.
A little history behind the Chinese New Year
Its also known as the Spring Festival, is a significant festival that marks the beginning of a new year on the traditional lunisolar Chinese calendar.
Here are some key points about Chinese New Year:
- Significance: Chinese New Year commemorates the start of a fresh year according to the traditional Chinese calendar, which combines both lunar and solar elements. It symbolizes renewal, family reunions, and the arrival of spring.
- Observances: The celebrations typically span from Chinese New Year’s Eve (the evening before the first day of the year) to the Lantern Festival (held on the 15th day of the year). This period includes various customs and traditions such as lion dances, dragon dances, fireworks, family gatherings, feasting, and the exchange of red envelopes.
- Date: The first day of Chinese New Year falls on the new moon that appears between 21 January and 20 February. The specific date varies each year.
- Global Celebration: Chinese New Year is not only celebrated in China but also by Chinese communities worldwide. It has significantly influenced Lunar New Year celebrations in other Asian cultures and regions with Overseas Chinese populations.
- Zodiac Animals: Each year is associated with an animal from the Chinese zodiac. For example, 2024 is the Year of the Dragon. So, during this festive time, people come together to welcome the new year, enjoy delicious meals, and wish each other prosperity and good fortune.
