5 Interesting Facts About Lunar New Year

Celebrate Lunar New Year with Google Arts & Culture

By Google Arts & Culture

Chinese new year with lanterns at night (2020-09-12) by Pete CarrCulture Liverpool

1. A Fifth of the World Population Celebrates Lunar New Year

Lunar New Year is the beginning of a calendar year whose months are moon cycles, based on the lunar calendar. The Lunar New Year as a celebration is observed by numerous cultures including Vietnam, Thailand, Taiwan, Singapore, Malaysia, Indonesia, China, Philippines and Korea.

Painting of various astrological charts / diagrams (19th century) by Unknown makerRoyal Ontario Museum

2. Each year is represented by one of the 12 animals

It is said the 12 animals were chosen animals by the Jade Emperor who won a special race for guarding the Heavenly Gate. 

The order of winner were Rat, Ox, Tiger, Rabbit, Dragon, Snake, Horse, Goat, Monkey, Rooster, Dog and Pig. 

Do you know which year 2023 is? 

The 12 Zodiac Animal Generals : General Rabbit (1983/1985) by Choi_Yu-HyunNational Intangible Heritage Center

Year of the Rabbit, and ...

While it would be widely known that 2023 is the year of the Rabbit

Tabby Cat (Important Cultural Property) (1924) by Takeuchi SeihōYamatane Museum of Art

Year of the Cat

In Vietnam, it is recognized as the year of the Cat.

Printed money envelope (2001/2001)British Museum

3. Money are given as gifts

It is a tradition shared by various Asian culture, to wish luck and prosperity in the year ahead. 


In China the custom is to give only brand new money in red envelope and never in the multiple of fours. 

If you wonder why, read a comprehensive story about the red envelope here

4. Celebration continues by praying

Lunar New Year is also a moment to remember those who has passed before us. Praying for the ancestors are an important part of the Lunar New Year tradition.

Together Apart Together: A Tray of the Asian Diaspora (2022-01-27) by Emily B. YangWelcome to Chinatown

5. A time for family gathering

Lunar New Year is the time for family gathering and wishes for a good health and prosperity.  On the new year day, the younger family member visit their parents and elder to greet them and have a great time together. 

New Year's Market in a Time of Peace-6 of 9 (1708/1771) by Ding GuanpengNational Palace Museum

Feeling playful? Why not try to play puzzle on your own or with your friends and family! 





Disclaimer :  The specific of traditions of Lunar New Year may differ from country to country in Asia. 

Credits: Story

Disclaimer :  The specific of traditions of Lunar New Year may differ from country to country in Asia. 

Credits: All media
The story featured may in some cases have been created by an independent third party and may not always represent the views of the institutions, listed below, who have supplied the content.
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