What is Lunar New Year? it is the date we often hear referred to as “Chinese New Year”. But it is not only celebrated to in China and the New Year is actually determined by the lunar calendar: the holiday falls on the second new moon after the winter solstice on December 21. Thus, each time the New Year in China falls on different dates of the usual Gregorian calendar, between January 21 and February 20.
The Lunar New Year is the most important celebration of the year in China and other Asian countries including Korea, Thailand and Japan. It is a time when people travel home to spend the holiday with family and important friends. Bringing in the new with spring and ushering out the old year. To bring luck and prosperity to the New Year, people celebrate with food and gifts over the 2 week period.
Businesses and retail centres around Australia are growing in their own celebrations of the Lunar New year, as they respect the growing diverse Asian population of Australia. This holiday can be as large as Christmas for key traders.Lunar New Year Australia.
Lunar Displays
Australian commercial celebrations include
- Lion dragon dancing with blessings
- Large blossom and red lantern displays
- Gifts and giveaways for shoppers
- Large light lanterns and floating lights
- Firecracker shows
- Food stalls and markets celebrating the New year traditional foods
Year of the Tiger
Each year is associated with one of the 12 animals in the Chinese zodiac. In the Chinese Zodiac, the year of the tiger symbolizes determination and enthusiasm. 2022 is also a water year which brings excitement and activity. A year for challenges and adventure. And it is said that children born in the year ahead will be brave, competitive and strong.
FUN FACT: The Lunar New Year is a time of beliefs. Those who celebrate don’t take out the trash or clean on the first day, as doing so is said to wash away your luck and prosperity. The second day, considered the beginning of the year, is spent with family. The third day is seen as a day prone to arguments, so visiting family and friends is avoided!
