Chinese New Year is one of the holidays filled with festive traditions. Behind this tradition, there is a hidden meaning. Come on, find out here!
Photo by Lauza Loistl on Unsplash
When lots of decorative lanterns, red ornaments, and barongsai (Lion Dance) attractions enliven the capital city, it means Chinese New Year has arrived. For people of Chinese descent, Chinese New Year is a highly anticipated holiday. Various traditions are carried out before the holiday until the holiday arrives. Each of these traditions has its own meaning. The following are Chinese New Year traditions and their respective meanings.
1. RED
Photo by Jeyakumaran Mayooresan on Unsplash
Chinese New Year will not be complete without red, which is usually found in home decorations, to the color of clothes worn when gathering with family and relatives. The red color itself can mean festivity and also describes a party event. Red is also believed to be the color of good luck and is believed to ward off spirits that bring bad luck.
2. Firecrackers or Fireworks
Photo by Vernon Raineil Cenzon on Unsplash
Firecrackers or fireworks are often found on major holidays. For Chinese New Year itself, firecrackers and fireworks have a meaning to scare away a monster called Nian. According to the story, Nian can attack anyone including children. Therefore, firecrackers and fireworks were set off during Chinese New Year to repel Nian's attacks.
3. Lion Dance
Photo by Dyana Wing So on Unsplash
One of the traditions that make Chinese New Year's Day even more lively is the lion dance. This dance, which is played by two people and resembles a lion, is believed to drive away bad luck, negative aura, and spirits that bring negative things to humans. This tradition is also believed to bring luck or luck.
4. Angpau
Angpau is a tradition that is quite looked forward to during Chinese New Year, especially for children. Angpau is believed to bring good luck and happiness. Usually, those who are obliged to give red packets are those who are married, this is because giving red packets is also a symbol of caring for others and also brings joy.
5. Expect Rain
Photo by Yiran Ding on Unsplash
Maybe you often hear that Chinese New Year will be even better if it is celebrated on a rainy day. This is because rain is believed to bring fortune and good luck. Therefore, many people expect rain to fall during the Chinese New Year.
Whatever tradition is carried out, hopefully, it can continue to bring luck and blessings to everyone. Happy Chinese New Year!