Today is Chinese New Year – we have just entered the year of the fire monkey!
The Chinese zodiac is split into 12 animal signs, each animal with their own unique characteristics. Being born in the year of the monkey (1932, 1944, 1956, 1968, 1980, 1992, 2004) means you are quick-witted, curious, innovative and mischievous, as well as having an impetuous temper and a tendency to look down on others. Lucky things include the numbers 4 and 9; the colours white, blue and gold; and the directions north, northwest and west. Unlikely things include the numbers 2 and 7; the colours red and pink; and the directions south and southeast.
Famous monkeys include Leonardo da Vinci, Charles Dickens, Lord Byron and Mick Jagger.
When the Chinese New Year falls is dictated by the lunar calendar (in 2015 it fell on February 19 and in 2017 it will be January 28). The celebrations of the Spring Festival, starting from New Year, end on the 15th day of the first month, with the colourful lantern festival, an event that is starting to become popular all over the world. None can beat the celebrations in China though – the lanterns get more and more elaborate every year!
The new year is a time to gather together as a family, to honour deities and ancestors and to clean the house. Everywhere is decorated with red papercuts, representing good fortune, happiness, and wealth, people give money in red envelopes, eat a lot of food, and set off firecrackers to scare away any malevolent spirits. There are also a number of superstitions associated with the start of the new year – here are just a few:
– Not wearing black and white clothing, as these are associated with mourning
– Avoiding using sharp object – any accident could lead to the loss of wealth over the coming year
– Not washing your hair, as it symbolises washing good fortune away (the pronunciation of the symbol for ‘hair’ and ‘to become wealthy’ are the same).
– No crying children – parents should do their best to keep their children happy as the cry of a child is bad luck!
So, Gong Xi Fa cai (happiness and prosperity) for this year of the monkey. Here’s to a good one.
If you fancy experiencing New Year in China, speak to one of our tailormade specialists (call now on 0800 988 8202), who will be able to take you through your options. Alternatively, Wendy Wu Tours are offering a Chinese New Year group tour for 2017, so you can celebrate in style in Hong Kong, Xian and Beijing.