| Events |  |
||||
Chinese New YearGung Hay Fat Choy! Chinese New Year begins with the new moon on the first day of the new year, according to the Chinese Lunar calendar, and ends with the full moon 15 days later. It is actually considered to be a Spring Festival believed to have originated with primitive man as he gave thanks to the gods for surviving the winter and prayed for a bountiful year to come. Be sure to check out our selection of 10 inch Floral Fans to give your Chinese New Year Event that special something. It is not clear exactly when the celebration began however, the Chinese calendar has been dated back to the 27th century BC. Each day of the Chinese New Year holds special significance. Most center around relatives both past and present. The second day of the Chinese New Year is believed to be the birthday of all dogs. Other days are dedicated toward immediate family, the “in-laws”, and visiting with friends. Celebrations culminate in the Lantern Festival on the 15th night during which the dragon dance is performed as a sign of protection and good luck. According to custom, an abundance of food is indicative of wealth, therefore copious dishes are created in celebration of the holiday. A traditional meal that is eaten on the first night is called jai. This is a vegetarian offering in which each ingredient symbolized some form of wealth and happiness for the new year. Each region of China has its own specialty in which they indulge on the first night and throughout the two weeks ranging from fish and chicken to rice pudding and dumplings (jiazoi). As is the custom all year, noodles are consumed whole, never cut, thus insuring a long life to the diner. Red is a color of luck for the Chinese. During Chinese New Year, white is not used (nor white foods consumed) as the color white is considered unlucky because it represents death and misfortune. Candy, Citrus, and flowers are used in decorating, each having its own significance dealing with health, longevity, and prosperity. Money trees are made from pinecones or branches and decorated with paper money and coins. Chinese people dress in new clothes (often red). Interestingly, the Chinese do not wash their hair on new years day. Children are not reprimanded as superstition holds that one who is crying on the new year will have a year of sadness. There is no cooking or cleaning on new years day so all preparations must be made in advance. In fact, all cleaning and cooking implements must be hidden away for just the sight of them would bring bad luck in the new year! Prior to the start of the new year, houses are cleaned and broom swept. In so doing, the Chinese believe that they will sweep away any ill fortune from the previous year. Doors and windows are given a fresh coat of red paint. The Chinese do not like to enter the new year with unfinished business. All debts are paid in full. Firecrackers are set off to ward away evil spirits. Lai see (small red decorative envelope) with money for good fortune given to children. Similar to new years celebrations around the world, Chinese new year is a time for out with the old and in with the new. Homes are decorated, elaborate meals are prepared, good fortune is courted, music and dance highlight the festivities. Activities are steeped with tradition and superstition and center around family and ancestors.
|
|||||
| Find a product for your party | |
| Featured Product | |
10" Floral Fans
Beautiful Fans! |
|
PRODUCTS PERSONALIZED PRODUCTS EVENTS CLOSEOUT SECTION CLOSEOUT CORNER