【the（spring及festival）】The Spring Festival, also known as Chinese New Year, is the most important traditional holiday in China. It marks the beginning of the lunar new year and is celebrated with a variety of customs, family gatherings, and cultural activities. The festival has a long history, dating back over 4,000 years, and is rich in symbolism and meaning.
Below is a summary of key aspects of the Spring Festival:
| Aspect | Description |
| Date | Usually falls between January 21st and February 20th, based on the lunar calendar. |
| Origin | Dates back to ancient times, associated with the myth of Nian, a beast that was scared away by loud noises and red colors. |
| Celebrations | Includes family reunions, feasting, fireworks, red envelopes (hongbao), and temple fairs. |
| Traditional Foods | Dumplings, fish, glutinous rice cakes (nian gao), and other symbolic dishes. |
| Symbols | Red color, lanterns, couplets, and the zodiac animals. |
| Zodiac Animals | Each year is represented by one of the 12 zodiac animals, such as the rat, ox, tiger, etc. |
| Lucky Money | Red envelopes containing money are given to children and unmarried adults. |
| New Year Greetings | Common greetings include “Gong Xi Fa Cai” (Wishing you wealth) and “Xin Nian Kuai Le” (Happy New Year). |
The Spring Festival is not only a time for celebration but also a moment for reflection, renewal, and strengthening family bonds. Its traditions have been passed down through generations and continue to play an important role in Chinese culture today. Whether you're celebrating in China or abroad, the spirit of the Spring Festival brings joy, hope, and a sense of community.
