Chinese New Year

Chinese New Year History

Chinese New Year, also known as Lunar New Year or Spring Festival, marks the beginning of a new lunar year and embodies the desire for a fresh start. Rituals, such as house cleaning and the lighting of firecrackers, are performed to sweep away ill fortune and to attract good luck. Food plays a significant role in the festival, with dishes such as dumplings and fish symbolizing wealth and prosperity. Family reunions are a cornerstone of Chinese New Year, highlighting the cultural emphasis on family and communal values.

The celebration of Chinese New Year has a history dating back thousands of years. Originally a ceremonial day to pray to gods for a good harvest, it has evolved over time into a vibrant cultural and social festival. In Canada, with its diverse multicultural society, the Chinese New Year holds significant value. For Canadians of Chinese descent, it is a touchstone of cultural heritage and traditional beliefs. It also serves as an opportunity for non-Chinese Canadians to appreciate and understand the rich tapestry that is Chinese culture and tradition.

Chinese New Year is widely celebrated across various cities in Canada. Festivities typically include colourful parades, dragon and lion dances, fireworks, traditional music performances and culinary feasts. Major cities with significant Chinese populations, such as Vancouver and Toronto, host large scale public events, making the celebration accessible to all Canadians. The date of the Chinese New Year varies annually, due to its alignment with the lunar calendar, typically falling between January 21 and February 20. Given this variable calendar, Canadian observance aligns with global timings of the festival as it is based on the lunar cycle which does not depend on geographic location.

Facts about Chinese New Year

• Chinese New Year in 2024 will be the Year of the Dragon. In 2023 it was the Year of the Rabbit, and in 2022 it was the Year of the Tiger.
• The names of the Chinese calendar are repeated every 60 years.
• I wish you happiness that comes from within, the best of luck to keep you pushing and peace in all days of the New Year - Gong Xi Fa Cai, Popular New Year song
• In 1947, the Canadian Chinese community witnessed a significant increase in population due to the repeal of the Chinese Exclusion Act, allowing for more substantial Chinese New Year celebrations across the country.
• Richmond, British Columbia, is home to the Aberdeen Centre, which organizes one of the largest Chinese New Year events in Canada with a countdown celebration, cultural performances, and a flower market.

In the News and Trending in Canada for Chinese New Year

Top things to do in Canada for Chinese New Year

• Clean your house. It is customary for Chinese to clean their homes in preparation for the New Year and the fresh start.
• Get together with friends and create a long dragon on sticks. One person gets to create the head, and the others can create the long flowy tail. Remember to use bright colors.
• Watch a film to learn more about Chinese culture:
  Everything Will Be - This documentary shows the transformation of Vancouver's Chinatown, including Chinese New Year celebrations showcasing the fusion of Chinese and Canadian cultures.
• Attend the Toronto Dragon Ball: This is Canada's largest Chinese New Year's gala celebrates with gourmet cuisine and stunning performances. It is a major fundraiser for the Yee Hong Community Wellness Foundation, which provides a range of multicultural services for seniors.