Chinese New Year

Chinese New Year is a time for celebration and merrymaking. Family reunion feasts and open houses are a common feature and children receive 'ang pows' or little red money packets from the elders.

According to Chinese community, Chinese New Year is the longest and most important celebration in the Chinese calendar. The Chinese year 4712 begins on Jan. 31, 2014. Chinese months are reckoned by the lunar calendar, with each month beginning on the darkest day. New Year festivities traditionally start on the first day of the month and continue until the fifteenth, when the moon is brightest. In China, people may take weeks of holiday from work to prepare for and celebrate the New Year.

Legend has it that in ancient times, Buddha asked all the animals to meet him on Chinese New Year. Twelve came, and Buddha named a year after each one. He announced that the people born in each animal's year would have some of that animal's personality. Those born in horse years are cheerful, skillful with money, perceptive, witty, talented and good with their hands.

Don't miss the exciting lion and dragon dance performances at shopping malls and homes. Watch our special Chinese New Year's video part 1 and part 2.