Inspite of the immense changes in the post modern world of China, people still view their life from the historical vantage point of the ancient traditions and customs. This is best explained by the zest with which the Chinese all across the globe celebrate the Chinese New Year Festival. Everyone knows that the first of January marks the first day of a new calendar. But the first day of Chinese New Year falls on the first new moon after 1st of January. Chinese New Year Festival is a family celebration with food, light, fireworks and lots of interactive activities that strengthens filial ties.
Chinese put their family in a very significant position as they consider it as a way to keep the family blood running. The Chinese New Year Festival starts the night before Chinese New Year as family members gather together for a traditional dinner known as “surrounding the stove” and acknowledge the spirits of their ancestors. The Chinese New Year Festival spans across fifteen days with each day having its individual importance.
On the first day of the Chinese New Year it is believed that the Chinese New Year God ascends to heaven to pay their respects and also report on the household chores to the Jade Emperor, the supreme Taoist deity. Therefore many folks abstain from having meat on the first day of the New Year because it is believed that this will ensure healthy and happy lives for them. On the second day, the Chinese acknowledge their ancestors as well as pray to all the gods. People feed dogs as it is believed that the second day is the birthday of all dogs. The third and fourth days are for the sons-in-laws to offer respect to their parents-in-law. The fifth day is known as Po Woo. On that day people stay at home to usher in the God of Wealth. It is customary not to visit families and friends on the fifth day because it will bring both parties bad luck. From the sixth to the tenth day, the Chinese greet their acquaintances, relatives and friends and wish them a happy and prosperous year ahead. They also visit the temples to pray for good luck, riches and health.
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