The Chinese New Year is not only celebrated in China but also in most of the countries worldwide. Societies that have Chinese cultural backgrounds hold colorful celebrations that involve parades, dramatics and cultural practices that unite the people.
Among the activities that are very popular in the celebration is the dragon dance. The performers wear a long dragon outfit that is held using poles and perform in a coordinated manner. Within the Chinese culture, the dragon is a symbol of strength, wisdom and good luck.
The other significant custom is the lion dances. Two actors make use of the costume of a lion and dance to the beat of drums and cymbals. The lion is considered to bring good fortune and to keep off the bad energy.
The arrival of the new year is normally celebrated by use of fireworks. In the past, loud noises were taken to be a ward off evil spirits. Nowadays, fireworks are associated with happiness, festivity, and the euphoria of the new life.
The use of parades in the cities is also very common. Such parades usually involve traditional attires, music and colorful floats depicting various culture themes of the festival.
During the holiday, prayer ceremonies are common especially in temples and other cultural centers. Individuals go to temples to get a better health, happiness and prosperity in the new year.
The traditional foods, decorations, and gifts are available at community markets and festivals. The markets provide vibrant settings that the families can share cultural activities.
Some of the large public celebrations are held in many countries such as Singapore, Malaysia, and Vietnam as well as the United States. Such incidents demonstrate the cultural popularity of the Chinese and the popularity of the festival in the world.
Educational institutions and cultural institutions usually take the time as an avenue to educate the people about Chinese culture, history and cultural principles.
The activities of Chinese New Year encourage people to be united, appreciate the culture and celebrate. The communities across the world celebrate the new lunar year with enthusiasm and hopeful expectation through dances, fireworks and meetings.
The festival still unites people of different cultures as well as celebrating traditions that have been in existence since ancient times.
One more: Chinese Zodiac and Festival History.