What is Chinese New Year?

Chinese New Year has possibly been celebrated for more than 4000 year–if you use the Chinese calendar which would be in the year 4700. The timing of this festival is determined from the Chinese lunar calendar. Chinese New Year usually falls between January 21st and February 19th because it occurs after the second new moon after the winter solstice.

This new year festival is very important and popular among the Chinese. It’s a time to clear away any bad luck of the previous year and make amends for the new year by paying off any debts. The new year offers a fresh, clean slate for the upcoming year. Therefore much visiting amongst family and friends occurs during this time. Delicious food and plenty of fireworks are shared throughout the entire week.

The Chinese Zodiac also plays a part in the Chinese New Year. At the new year, the next zodiac animal becomes the animal of that year. This Chinese New Year celebrates the Year of the Tiger.