Posted 2 weeks ago
Sun 26 Jan, 2025 12:01 AM
The Chinese Lunar New Year marks the start of a new year on the lunar calendar, which is based on the moonâs cycles. Unlike the standard New Year on 1st January, the date changes each year, falling sometime between late January and mid-February. For this year, it begins on 29th January, and itâs the Year of the Snake!
How is it celebrated?
Chinese Lunar New Year is all about family, food, and traditions. Itâs a time to reflect on the past year and welcome good fortune for the one ahead. Hereâs what typically happens:
- Reunion dinners: Families gather for a massive feast filled with dishes like dumplings, noodles, and sweet treats. Each dish has a symbolic meaningâlike dumplings for wealth and noodles for longevity.
- Red everything: Red decorations, lanterns, and clothing are everywhere because red symbolises luck and wards off bad energy.
- Giving red envelopes: These envelopes, called hongbao, are filled with money and gifted to younger family members for good luck. Sadly, this might not catch on with uni flatmates!
- Lion dances and fireworks: Expect to see traditional lion or dragon dances and hear plenty of firecrackersâitâs all about scaring away evil spirits.
Why should you get involved?
Even if you donât celebrate Lunar New Year traditionally, itâs a great excuse to learn about a different culture, try some delicious food, and connect with your uni mates. Itâs a fun break from lectures and assignments, and who doesnât love a reason to eat dumplings and spring rolls?
How can you celebrate?
If youâre not sure how to get started, here are a few ideas:
- Host a potluck: Get your flatmates together to cook Chinese-inspired dishes. It doesnât have to be perfectâready-made dumplings and stir-fry from the supermarket count too!
- Decorate your space: Grab some red decorations or fairy lights and bring the festive vibes to your room.
- Check out local events: Many cities have parades, lantern festivals, or performances.
- Spread the luck: Write down your New Yearâs resolutions or wishes for the year aheadâpositivity is contagious!
Donât miss out in your accommodation
To see if your site is celebrating Lunar New Year, simply pop down to reception and check out whatâs happening. Many sites will be running special events or promos so itâs a great chance to meet other students, have some fun and potentially get some freebies!