Lunar New Year 2017: Everything You Need to Know

What is Lunar New Year?

Lunar New Year, also known as the Spring Festival, is the most important holiday in the Chinese calendar. It is celebrated on the second new moon after the winter solstice, which usually falls in late January or early February. In 2017, Lunar New Year will begin on Saturday, January 28th.

Traditions and Customs

Lunar New Year is a time to celebrate family, friends, and the coming of spring. Some of the most common traditions include:

• Family reunions: Families from all over the country travel home to be together for Lunar New Year.
• Feasting: Families and friends gather for large feasts, which often include traditional dishes such as dumplings, spring rolls, and fish.
• Fireworks: Fireworks are set off to scare away evil spirits and bring good luck.
• Red envelopes: Red envelopes filled with money are given to children and unmarried adults as a wish for good fortune.
• Lion dances: Lion dances are performed to bring good luck and prosperity.

How to Celebrate Lunar New Year

There are many ways to celebrate Lunar New Year, whether you are Chinese or not. Here are a few ideas:

• Attend a Lunar New Year celebration: Many cities and towns host Lunar New Year celebrations with parades, lion dances, and other performances.
• Visit a Chinese temple: Chinese temples are often decorated for Lunar New Year and offer special prayers and ceremonies.
• Eat traditional Lunar New Year food: Many restaurants offer special Lunar New Year menus or you can cook traditional dishes at home.
• Give red envelopes: Red envelopes are a traditional way to give money to children and unmarried adults.
• Watch a Lunar New Year movie: There are many great Lunar New Year movies available, both old and new.

Lunar New Year in the United States

Lunar New Year is becoming increasingly popular in the United States, with many cities and towns hosting celebrations. In 2017, there will be Lunar New Year celebrations in New York City, San Francisco, Los Angeles, and many other cities.

Lunar New Year Around the World

Lunar New Year is celebrated in many countries around the world, including China, Vietnam, Korea, and Japan. Each country has its own unique traditions and customs for celebrating the holiday.

Economic Impact of Lunar New Year

Lunar New Year is a major economic event in China and other countries around the world. In 2016, Chinese consumers spent an estimated $140 billion on Lunar New Year-related purchases.

Cultural Impact of Lunar New Year

Lunar New Year is a major cultural event in China and other countries around the world. It is a time to celebrate family, friends, and the coming of spring. The holiday has also had a significant impact on popular culture, with many movies, TV shows, and songs being created about Lunar New Year.

Conclusion

Lunar New Year is a vibrant and colorful holiday that is celebrated by millions of people around the world. It is a time to celebrate family, friends, and the coming of spring. If you are looking for a way to experience a new culture, Lunar New Year is the perfect time to do it.

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Lunar New Year Dates

Chinese Zodiac Animals

Lunar New Year Economic Impact