Chinese New Year, also known as the Spring Festival or Lunar New Year, is indeed a significant and widely celebrated festival in Chinese culture. It is a time for family reunions, cultural festivities, and welcoming a new year with hope and optimism. In 2024, Chinese New Year begins on February 10th and lasts for 15 days, concluding with the Lantern Festival.
To celebrate Chinese New Year 2024, you can:
- Plan a family reunion: Just like Thanksgiving in Western cultures, Chinese New Year is a time for gathering with loved ones and sharing a special meal together.
- Decorate with red: Red is the color associated with good luck and happiness in Chinese culture. Decorate your home with red lanterns, couplets, and other festive items to bring in good fortune.
- Enjoy traditional foods: Indulge in traditional Chinese dishes like dumplings, spring rolls, fish, and rice cakes, as they symbolize prosperity and abundance.
- Give red envelopes (Hongbao): It is customary to give red envelopes containing money to wish others goodwill and blessings, especially when visiting friends and family.
- Watch dragon and lion dances: Attend local parades or performances featuring vibrant dragon and lion dances. These dances are believed to bring good luck and ward off evil spirits.
Chinese New Year has a rich history dating back over 3,000 years and has its roots in celebrating the end of winter and the arrival of spring. Throughout the centuries, the festival has evolved, incorporating Chinese mythology and folklore to become the grand celebration it is today. It is a fantastic opportunity to immerse yourself in Chinese culture and traditions. (Lunar New Year 2024 – History Channel)
Washington University Events
February 9th at 7pm and February 10th at 2:00pm and 7:00pm – Lunar New Year Festival presented by WU AAPI students in Edison Theater.
St. Louis Community Events
February 10th from 12:30-3:30pm – Year of the Drago: Lunar New Year Exhibition & Fundraiser with Lunch and Panel Discussion, Duane Reed Gallery, 4729 McPherson Ave, St. Louis, MO
February 10th at 7:30pm – Lunar New year at the St. Louis Symphony Orchestra