Steamed Fish | 蒸鱼 | zhēng yúĪs you may already know, the Chinese language includes many homophones (同音词 tóngyīncí), which results in many characters and words having the same pronunciation as one another. Though traditions can vary between northern and southern China, here are a few examples of common “auspicious foods” presented at reunion dinners: 1. In fact, the Chinese Spring Festival also marks the world’s largest human migration, as overseas Chinese and Chinese migrant laborers return home to celebrate the advent of the new year alongside their families. The New Year’s Eve dinner (年夜饭 niányèfàn) kick starts the tradition of family reunions.
What foods are eaten during Chinese New Year?įamily is of central importance in traditional Chinese culture, and Spring Festival is generally a very family-oriented holiday. The holiday has even had an influence on the traditional festivals of other cultures with whom the Chinese have historically interacted, including the Koreans, Vietnamese, Mongolians, and Japanese. Devoted Buddhist and Daoist practitioners also often visit local temples to welcome the new year.
Wearing new clothes is also a common tradition to ward off bad luck-a new year is a time for newness after all!Ī post shared by Chinese Language Institute Chinese New Year is an important time to 拜年 (bàinián, to pay a new year call), so it is common practice to visit relatives and exchange auspicious greetings and Chinese gifts, including the ever-popular lucky red envelopes filled with Chinese currency. Red is an auspicious color as it scares away the Nian monster. In many homes, you will find auspicious Chinese characters and couplets on red paper stuck on doors. The Chinese New Year is a 15-day holiday and includes a variety of festivities depending on the region and its local traditions and customs. However, certain common customs are shared regardless of region.įor example, it is common practice to decorate one’s home with Chinese lanterns. Spring Festival is a time for families to come together, exchange money-filled red envelopes (红包, hóngbāo), and enjoy delicious Chinese food. Join a Spring Festival Celebration and Practice Your Chinese.Chinese Vocabulary for the Spring Festival.The Chinese New Year Through a Local's Eyes.What are some taboos during Spring Festival?.
万事如意 (wànshìrúyì) - May all your hopes be fulfilled 岁岁平安 (suìsuì píng'ān) - May you have peace year after year 恭喜发财 (gōngxǐfācái) - May you have a prosperous year! “Longevity Noodles” | 长寿面 | chángshòumiàn What foods are eaten during Chinese New Year?.