As the Lunar New Year rolls around, we’re not just welcoming a new year, we’re diving into a vibrant tapestry of tradition, culture, and a whole lot of fun! The Lunar New Year is the most important holiday in the Chinese community, and it serves as a time to reconnect with loved ones and honor the symbolism that defines so much of our culture.
One popular legend is that thousands of years ago a monster named Nian (“Year”) would attack villagers at the beginning of each new year. The monster was afraid of loud noises, bright lights, and the color red, so those things were used to chase the beast away. Because of this, celebrations to usher out the old year and bring forth the luck and prosperity of the new one typically include firecrackers, fireworks, and red clothes and decorations.
From covering every surface of my childhood home with red decorations, to the all-important red envelopes stuffed with cash (aka “lucky money”) or candy, the color brings back so many joyful memories for me. Finding a red envelope as a kid was like discovering the treasure at the end of a rainbow.
No celebration is complete without traditional Chinese dance performances, including one of my family’s most cherished, the lion dance. The lion dance is performed to bless families and businesses with good luck and prosperity, and every year my sister Stephy is leading the charge. She brings so much energy and fun to the celebration, transforming herself into a fierce lion herself (complete with roars and all.)
While nothing compares to the 15-day long festivals held annually in China (I was lucky enough to experience them in-person last year), the Boston community certainly knows how to celebrate in style. The past two weeks have been packed with dinners, events, and reunions. Whether through feasting, festivities, or simply spending time with loved ones, the spirit of the new year is truly one of togetherness and joy! Happy Lunar New Year!
