As you may know Chinese New Year is the most important festival to Chinese people and lasts over a period of 15 days. Each day has a significance and a tradition attached to it; from eating with family, gift giving, staying at home, being kind to dogs, praying in temples and ending with lanterns.
The first day of the Lunar New Year is "the welcoming of the gods of the heavens and earth." Many people abstain from eating meat on the first day of the new year because it is believed that this will ensure long and happy lives for them.
On the second day, people pray to their ancestors as well as to all the gods. They are extra kind to dogs and feed them well as it is believed that the second day is the birthday of all dogs.
The third and fourth days are for the sons-in-laws to pay respect to their parents-in-law.
The fifth day is called Po Woo. On that day people stay home to welcome the God of Wealth. No one visits family and friends on the fifth day because it will bring both parties bad luck.
On the sixth to the 10th day, people visit their relatives and friends freely. They also visit the temples to pray for good fortune and health.
The seventh day of the New Year is the day for farmers to display their produce. These farmers make a drink from seven types of vegetables to celebrate the occasion. The seventh day is also considered the birthday of human beings. Noodles are eaten to promote longevity and raw fish for success.
On the eighth day the Fujian people have another family reunion dinner, and at midnight they pray to Tian Gong, the God of Heaven.
The ninth day is to make offerings to the Jade Emperor.
During the 10th to 12th days friends and relatives should be invited for dinner. After so much rich food, on the 13th day people usually have simple rice congee and mustard greens (choi sum) to cleanse their system.
On the 14th day preparations begin for the celebration of the Lantern Festival which is then held on the 15th night.
And so it is..........the 15 days of Chinese New Year!
No comments:
Post a Comment