Chinese New Years

Monday, 27 January 2014

Year of the Horse

The Chinese New Years celebrations are already starting at my school. The school is decorated with red lanterns and orange trees. I thought I should share the information that I learned about this celebration.


Friday is the official New Years - January 31, 2014. This is an important time to spend with family. The New Years is also called the Spring Festival as it is also close to the arrival of spring time. This year - 2014 - is the year of the HORSE.


Lai See (red packet) are usually given by the married to the single people - I am wondering if I will get some. Hummmmmm? However, it is far more popular to give these red packets to children. The red colour of the envelope symbolizes good luck and is supposed to ward off evil spirits. Also many people like to light firecrackers are during these holidays as people believe the loud noise can drive away bad luck. I haven't heard too many going yet but I did see a lot of red paper on the sidewalk on Sunday when I went out for breakfast. Based on the amount of leftover red paper on the ground I am thinking these must have been some serious firecrackers.


During these holidays the Chinese eat a variety of special foods including fish, meat, dumplings, puddings, roasted nuts seeds, candies and fruits.