5 Things You Didn’t Know About the Chinese New Year
4. There is a tradition of giving money in red envelopes to children by married adults. The money that is given has to be in even number and something not divisible by 4 because the number is associated with “death” in Chinese. You are also not supposed to look at the clock at 4:44. Most kids receive thousands of dollars on New Year’s Day.
5. On New Year’s Eve, people get together to have big meals together. This includes dumplings, fish and a specially made cake. On the day of the New Year, many people avoid eating meat, a practice that ensures long life.
The Chinese New Year marks the beginning of new life. It also marks the time when natives plough the land and sow new seeds. New Year festivities begin on the first day of the month and continue for two weeks. The first week is about visiting friends and relatives. Certain traditions are observed which are believed to bring good luck. The festivities conclude with the Lantern festival, which is celebrated on the 15th day of the month.
