The Chinese New Year, or Lunar New Year，
新年， 农历新年， 春节 is the most
important event in the social calendar of ethnic Chinese around the
world.
It usually falls in January or February. In
2008, the first day of the Chinese New Year falls on 7 February. Each year is
represented by one of the 12 zodiac animals. 2008 is year of the Rat, the start
of a 12 year cycle.
The Chinese New Year celebration last for 15
days but in most countries, the first and usually the second day of Chinese New
Year is designated as public holidays. In places where Chinese New Year is not
official holidays, the Chinese population either applies for leave or celebrates
during the nearest weekend. Preparation for Chinese New Year
occurs at multiple levels.
The major celebrations during the Chinese New
Year are New Year eve reunion dinner 除夕团年饭,
visiting on New Year’s Day
拜年and the yuanxiao元宵the
15th day and the last day of the new year.
The Chinese New Year celebration is a colorful,
symbolic and joyous time. Many customs have a long history and may not be
understood by all. Some dismiss certain aspects as superstition but a more in
depth and detailed analysis suggest that cultural practices relating to the
Chinese New Year do have social functions even if it is not immediately obvious.
Therefore, the celebration of Chinese New Year
is also a form of cultural transmission and illuminates the values and
aspiration of ethnic Chinese.
The series of articles discuss various aspects of Chinese New
and its celebration:
