The vibrant tapestry of Chinese New Year unfolds with the arrival of the Year of the Dragon in 2024. From the bustling streets of Beijing to the heart of Chinatowns around the globe, this auspicious occasion ushers in a wave of festivities, traditions, and a feast for the senses.
View our 2024 Chinese New Year: Year of the Dragon lightbox.
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When is Chinese New Year 2024?
The Chinese New Year, marking the first day in the lunar calendar, falls on Saturday, February 10, 2024. The celebrations commence on the evening of February 9 and continue until February 24, culminating in lantern festivals that illuminate the fifteenth day of festivities.
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Global Celebrations: Where is Chinese New Year Celebrated?
Beyond the borders of China, the lunar new year is celebrated in various regions and countries. Nations using the lunar calendar or boasting large Chinese communities, such as Malaysia, Vietnam, Korea, Myanmar, Thailand, Cambodia, Singapore, and the Philippines, partake in the joyous celebrations.
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Diverse Traditions: How is Chinese New Year Celebrated?
Traditions and customs vary, but the spirit of the celebration is universal. Parades featuring dragons and lions, individuals in traditional attire, and spectacular firework displays create an electrifying atmosphere. In Hong Kong, a night parade kicks off the festivities with floats, acrobats, and dazzling performances, offering a vibrant experience unique to the city.
The heart of the celebration lies in family reunions, symbolized by a significant reunion dinner on New Year’s Eve. Families engage in the symbolic act of cleaning their homes to sweep away bad luck, adorning windows and doors with red paper-cuts and lanterns. Red envelopes and packaging filled with money and presents circulate to ward off evil and bring good health.
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The Year of the Dragon: Symbolising Power, Strength, and Good Fortune
In 2024, the Chinese zodiac designates the Year of the Dragon, a symbol of power, strength, and good fortune. As this majestic creature takes center stage, the air is filled with anticipation for the positive energy it promises.
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Celebrating at Home: How to Embrace the Festivities
For those celebrating at home, feasting is a cornerstone of the festivities. The family dinner on New Year’s Eve is a cherished tradition, often featuring communal hotpots symbolising the reunion of family members. For those who prefer not to cook, Chinese New Year meal delivery services in cities worldwide offer a convenient way to partake in the culinary delights.
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Traditional Chinese New Year Food: A Culinary Extravaganza
The feast extends to the table, with traditional dishes like poon choi and pen cai gracing the celebrations. Poon choi, a Cantonese big-bowl meal, showcases a luxurious assortment of seafood, mushrooms, and roast meats. Singaporeans may indulge in pen cai, a one-dish meal cooked in a clay pot featuring abalone, mushrooms, and conpoy. Starters like yusheng, and desserts like pineapple tart and nian gao add a sweet and symbolic touch to the festivities.
Whether you find yourself in the heart of China or part of a global Chinese community, the Year of the Dragon invites all to partake in the joyous celebrations, creating memories that echo the spirit of unity, good fortune, and family.