Chinese New Year Defined:
Just what is Chinese New Year? There's actually a lot more to it than lion dances and firecrackers, although these two pieces of tradition are integral and more visible, Chinese New Year to China is like Christmas to the West. In essence, Chinese New Year is spending time with family, gift giving and, the all important, food-fest.While Americans, if we're lucky may get Christmas Eve day and Christmas Day off, and Europeans may take a whole week holiday, Chinese New Year festivities officially last for fifteen days. Businesses and factories usually only take about one week off.
Just how do the Chinese people spend time during the fifteen days of celebration? Find out by reading the Chinese New Year Traditional Calendar of Events.
When is Chinese New Year?
In 2009, New Year's Day falls on January 26. Chinese workers usually get a week of holiday over Chinese New Year. This means that offices and factories are closed and shops and banks may have limited hours. But generally, aside from New Year's Eve and New Year's Day, most service facilities (restaurants, hotels) and certainly tourist sights are open.Still have questions about openings and closings? Read answers to those questions about Traveling During Chinese New Year.
History of Chinese New Year:
Read a brief article about the origins of Chinese New Year.
2009 - The Year of the Ox:
2009 brings us the Year of the Ox on the Chinese lunar calendar. If you'd like to look up your specific forecast, check out this astrology site.
What's Your Sign? The Chinese Lunar Calendar & Zodiac:
The Chinese Lunar Calendar & Chinese Zodiac article will explain the origins and the meaning of the calendar and zodiac animals.
The Twelve Animal Signs:
Just for fun, take a look at your Chinese Zodiac sign to see what characteristics you share with your designated animal and some interesting career advice.
Year of the Rat
Year of the Ox
Year of the Tiger
Year of the Rabbit
Year of the Dragon
Year of the Snake
Year of the Horse
Year of the Sheep
Year of the Monkey
Year of the Rooster
Year of the Dog
Year of the Boar
Chinese New Year Food
Here are some wonderful articles about what is traditionally eaten during Chinese New Year from our guide to Chinese cuisine:
Symbolic Chinese Food and Recipes
Chinese New Year Menus
Chinese New Year Recipes
Chinese New Year Around the Globe
If you're not going to be in China, here's what's happening closer to home:- Chinese New Year in Canada
- Chinese New Year in Dublin
- Chinese New Year in Hong Kong
- Chinese New Year in London
- Chinese New Year in Los Angeles
- Chinese New Year in Montreal
- Chinese New Year in New York City
- Chinese New Year in Paris
- Chinese New Year in San Francisco
- Chinese New Year in Scandinavia
- Chinese New Year in Sydney
- Chinese New Year in the UK
- Event Round Up (Travel With Kids)
