Happy Chinese new year! Not long after we celebrated the end of 2023 and the start of the 2024 calendar year, comes the new Lunar new year. As we enter a new year, (both calendar and lunar), it is also time to welcome the Chinese New Year of the Dragon.
Notably, the Chinese new year this year begins on February 10th. The Chinese New Year is also known as the Spring Festival in China and Chinese tongue. It is the most important and festive occasion in the Chinese culture. Also, it is one of festivals, it is also a day of family reunion, joy, and hope for the future.
The dragon being a majestic creature is spectacular in its might. The mystical creature can be found represented as sculptures everywhere at Malls and even Chinatown in glory.
Welcome the Year of the Wood Dragon
Furthermore, Chinese new year always has a close relation to animals. With the tradition based on the 12 animal signs which rotate every 12 years on the lunar calendar. Each animal sign has its own personality, characteristics, and compatibility with other signs. Also, the animal sign of 2024 is the Dragon, the only mythical creature in the Chinese zodiac.
Additionally, not surprising, in Chinese Culture, the Dragon is a symbol of power, strength, and good fortune. Interestingly, it is believed to be also one the coolest of all the mythical creatures and embedded in Chinese culture. You can find art of dragons long adoring paintings in Chinese culture and even emperor palaces.
Qualities of the dragon
Moreover, people born in the Year of the Dragon are said to have desirable qualities. Examples includes being charismatic, ambitious, adventurous, and fearless. They are also confident, independent, and visionary.
Interestingly, for the record, notable popular and famous people born in the Year of the Dragon includes personalities Bruce Lee, Martin Luther King Jr., Rihanna, and Elon Musk. You are technically “a Dragon” if you were born in one of these years 2012, 2000, 1988, 1976, 1964, 1952, 1940, 1928, 1916, 1904, typically in 12-year increments apart between generations.
Additionally, the Year of the Dragon 2024 is also known as the Year of the Wood Dragon. Also written as Jia Chen 甲辰 in Chinese. In Chinese folklore, the element of Wood represents growth, creativity, and flexibility. Also, there are 4 different elements, namely Air, fire, earth and wood which adds to the variety and permutations of the Zodiac animal each year.
It is interesting that zodiac animals exists in form of the elements. As with every Chinese folklore, the belief of the Year of the Wood Dragon brings upon a set of potential and opportunity. Also, people born in the Year of the Wood Dragon are said to be innovative, optimistic, and generous. They are also good at solving problems and creating value for themselves and others.
Welcoming the Chinese Lunar New Year
Chinese New year (CNY) is a global event. The Chinese New Year period typically runs over a 15 days marking the first full moon of the new year. It is celebrated in a similar manner regardless of where you are around the world. That also comes with common traditions such as cleaning the house (spring cleaning), decorating with red lanterns and couplets.
Interestingly, you are also not allowed to sweep out of the house nor wash your hair during the first day of the CNY too. Families will get together preparing and dining in a reunion dinner. There be giving (and receiving) of red packets, setting off fireworks, and visiting relatives and friends.
Moreover, the red colour is considered auspicious and lucky in the Chinese culture, containing money. Typically given to children and elders as a way of expressing gratitude and blessing. Also, the reunion dinner is the most important meal of the year. Here, family members gather around a table full of delicious dishes. Steamboat or hotpot is typically served and a dining atmosphere for family to share their stories and wishes.
Chinese New Year 2024 Dragon Dances
Wrapping up one of the highlights of the Chinese New Year is the lion and dragon dance. It is a spectacular performance that is said to bring luck. This vibrant spectacle that’s not just entertainment, but a charm for good luck. Imagine a group of dancers working together, twirling a long, colorful dragon costume in a rhythmic dance.
But it’s not just about the show, the Chinese belief is that the dragon dance showers blessings on the community. It wards off any lurking evil spirits and inviting good luck and prosperity. Businesses especially love to embrace this tradition, turning it into a lively affair accompanied by booming drums, clashing cymbals, and resonant gongs. The noise is all about scaring away negativity, creating an atmosphere that’s festive and full of life.
All in all, let’s us welcome the Chinese New Year of the Dragon in 2024. The event is not just about celebrating what has been and what is, but also about looking ahead to what’s coming. Let’s approach it with optimism, hope, gratitude, and humility, while also nurturing ambition and confidence. Here’s to a Chinese New Year brimming with joy, peace, and love – may it be a truly happy one for all!
Good luck 🙂