Chinese New Years Across Generations: Celebrating History and Heritage

Kung Hei Fat Choi! Chinese New Years is on January 29, 2025 this year, and is celebrated till February 14 ending with its Lantern Festival celebration. Chinese New Year or Lunar New Year is celebrated due to the calculations of the lunar calendar first new moon of the lunar year and lasts till the following full moon. This is also why Chinese New Years is celebrated every year on a different date, landing between January of February.

The origin of Chinese New Year stems from legend, of a beast called Nian (year in Chinese). Nian was a terrifying, horned, lion like beast that lived under the sea most of the year, but on New Years Eve, would appear and start attacking the villagers. One day an elderly man that has once been attacked by Nian, tells the villagers how to defeat him. "The color red, loud noises and fire terrifies the beast, and can be used to ward Nian way. So the villagers clothe themselves and decorate their houses in red, and start setting off fireworks. Upon seeing this, Nian is terrified and retreats back to the sea. From then, traditions have gone as followed. (Here is a cute book about The Tale of Nian to help you get into the Chinese New Years spirit 📚❤️)

So how are traditions being continued to be kept alive today? After centuries, you will still see the color red being sported every year. Superstitions say to avoid wearing black or white because not only is it inauspicious, but also seen as disrespectful because black and whites are usually saved for funerals or period of mourning.

Here are some red outfit options, with an oriental modern twist.

(This is the mini dress version)

(While this is the long dress version. Personally, I prefer the long dress version because of the elegant back slit. Giving a classy peak of the legs.)

( I really enjoy how this Women's Button Down Long Sleeve Shirt, gives a resemblance to the Qipao style. Qipao is the traditional style Chinese dress worn by women.)

( Here is a modern update to the Chinese Qipao)

Red house decorations are also essential for ringing in the Chinese New Year. This year is also the year of the snake, so celebrating this years zodiac animal will also be seen in this years festive decorations.

(Lanterns are usually hung from the ceilings, with red banners above and surrounding door ways with blessings and good wishes.)

Traditional Chinese snack trays bring a nostalgic touch of Grandma's house. I remember opening up these snack filled trays during visits, and being greeted with white rabbits, Chinese trail mix, peanuts, wasabi balls, dried fruits and more little yummy treats. So add a touch of nostalgia this Chinese New Years with these cute Chinese snack trays.

Kumquats or little mandarin oranges are commonly displayed, eaten or gifted around Chinese New Years. These little fruits symbolize good luck and prosperity. A typical way you would seen them displayed are on these Red Round Chinese trays.

(Tea can also be served on top of here as well)

Spend some time with the family building your own kumquat plant, with this Lego Money Tree.

Or spend time building these other Chinese New Year Lego displays.

Now a unique and fun tradition that many family members and friends love exchanging with one another is.... Red Envelopes 🧧 (also translated as Hóngbāo) Red envelopes are a symbol of good luck and prosperity. These envelopes are usually seen decorated with gold letters, lucky symbols, zodiac animals or other designs.

As tradition goes, elders would hand these out to singles and children. While married couples will exchange among themselves.

So as the Chinese New Year holiday season approaches nearer, take time to practice traditions that have been passed down from generation to generation. Gather around with family and friends, and wishing you all a prosperous and wonderful Chinese New Years

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