At the second new moon after Winter Solstice (December 21) of each calendar year, China and many Asian cultures celebrate the Lunar New Year. This date usually falls somewhere between January 21 and February 20 on Western calendars. Lunar New Year celebrations signify prosperity, abundance, and togetherness.
Celebrations typically begin about 10 days before the first day of the new year, beginning with a deep-clean of the home. This thorough cleanse is said to wash away any bad luck that is lingering from the previous year. On New Year’s Eve and New Year’s Day, time is meant to be spent with family to celebrate ancestors. Red envelopes, also known as lai see, are filled with money and handed out to symbolize good luck and wishes. Often seen on Lunar New Year, dragon and lion dances are meant to chase away evil spirits and offer good fortune and prosperity. Red lanterns are hung to drive off bad luck and to scare away the legendary beast, Nian who fears noise, fire, and the colour red.
Every aspect of the Lunar New Year celebration symbolizes the importance of togetherness, prosperity, and specific aspects of the year’s zodiac. The Year of the Rabbit occurs in 2023, which is said to bring good luck, elegance, and peace.
This year, celebrate the Lunar New Year in The Orchards on January 21 at 12-2 p.m. Enjoy bubble tea, dances and red envelopes for a little prosperity of your own. Bring your family to celebrate together. The celebration will be held at Show Home Village – dress for the weather as some activities will be outside.