On February 1st, China and the Chinese diaspora celebrate Chinese New Year, as do Taiwan, Indonesia, Malaysia, South Korea, Singapore and other countries.
The holiday is preceded by a period of preparation during which people clean their homes, paint and repair any broken objects, purchase new clothes for the festive season, exchange gifts with loved ones, and prepare special dishes for Chinese New Year’s Eve dinner.
People also spend time decorating their homes to welcome in the New Year.On Chinese New Year’s Day itself there are several customs that are typically observed such as visiting relatives home or hosting them at one’s own home to share good wishes for the year ahead.
Red envelopes containing money known as lai see are exchanged between family members including children as a symbol of luck and goodwill.
In addition to these activities families will often attend Dragon or Lion dances performed by professional dancers wearing costumes shaped like animals which they carry through the streets while performing various acrobatic movements. Fireworks displays throughout cities may occur across multiple nights depending on location.
All around China towns and villages celebrate this holiday with parties full of cultural performances such as craft exhibitions, art competitions traditional games djembe music festivals where locals come together under one roof make it an even more special experience
