Welcome the Year of the Rooster: Celebrating Lunar New Year Festival 2017
Celebrate Lunar New Year 2017 with traditional food, music, and festivities. Join the festivities and ring in the year of the rooster!
It's that time of the year again when red lanterns fill the streets, firecrackers light up the sky and the aroma of delicious food lingers in the air. That's right, it's Lunar New Year Festival 2017! If you're not familiar with this festive occasion, then you're missing out on one of the most vibrant and exciting celebrations in the world. As we bid farewell to the Year of the Monkey and welcome the Year of the Rooster, let's dive into the traditions and customs that make this festival so special.
The Lunar New Year is celebrated by millions of people around the world, particularly in East Asia. The lunar calendar is based on the cycles of the moon, which means that the date of the festival varies each year. This year, the Lunar New Year falls on January 28th. So, what can you expect from this auspicious occasion? Well, for starters, you'll witness a sea of red everywhere you go. Red is considered a lucky color in Chinese culture, and it's believed to ward off evil spirits. You'll also see people wearing traditional outfits such as qipao and cheongsam, which are adorned with intricate designs and embroidery.
Of course, no Lunar New Year Festival would be complete without the abundance of food. From dumplings and noodles to rice cakes and spring rolls, there's something to satisfy every taste bud. One of the most popular dishes during this time is nian gao, or sticky rice cake. It's said to bring good luck and prosperity for the new year. However, be warned – it's incredibly sticky and can get stuck in your teeth!
Another highlight of the Lunar New Year Festival is the lion dance. This traditional dance involves performers dressed in elaborate lion costumes, prancing and leaping to the beat of drums and cymbals. It's believed that the lion dance can scare away evil spirits and bring good fortune. You'll also see dragon dances, which are longer and more complex than lion dances. The dragon is considered a symbol of power, strength, and good luck.
One of the most exciting events during the Lunar New Year Festival is the fireworks display. Fireworks have been a part of Chinese culture for centuries, and they're used to ward off evil spirits and bring good luck. The explosions and bright colors are said to scare away any bad luck from the previous year and welcome in the new year with a bang. However, if you're not a fan of loud noises, be sure to bring earplugs!
If you're looking to get in on the action, there are plenty of ways to celebrate the Lunar New Year Festival in your city. Many communities host parades, festivals, and cultural performances. You can also visit temples or attend family gatherings to partake in traditional customs such as exchanging red envelopes filled with money or eating a reunion dinner.
While the Lunar New Year Festival is all about having fun and celebrating with loved ones, it's important to remember the significance and meaning behind the traditions. The festival is about renewing and starting anew; it's a time to reflect on the past year and set goals for the future. It's also a time to honor ancestors and pay respects to the gods.
So, as we welcome the Year of the Rooster, let's embrace the festivities with open arms. Eat, drink, dance, and be merry. And don't forget to wear red!
In conclusion, Lunar New Year Festival 2017 is an exciting and vibrant celebration that's enjoyed by millions of people around the world. From the food to the lion dance to the fireworks, there's something for everyone to enjoy. But let's not forget the true meaning behind the festival – a time for renewal, reflection, and honoring ancestors. Happy Lunar New Year!
Introduction
Lunar New Year Festival 2017 is one of the most significant events in the Chinese calendar. It is a time when friends and family gather to celebrate the start of the new lunar year. This year, the festival falls on January 28th, which marks the beginning of the Year of the Rooster. The festival is a time for feasting, exchanging gifts, and participating in traditional activities that bring good luck and prosperity for the coming year. In this article, we will take a humorous look at some of the highlights of Lunar New Year Festival 2017.
The Rooster Takes Center Stage
As mentioned earlier, 2017 is the Year of the Rooster, and this means that roosters will be everywhere during the festival. From decorations to food, roosters will be front and center. If you are a fan of chicken dishes, then this is your lucky year as roasted chicken, chicken soup, and other chicken-based dishes will be available in abundance. Just make sure you don't accidentally eat one of the many rooster-shaped pastries or cookies that will also be on offer.
Lion and Dragon Dancing
One of the most exciting and colorful parts of Lunar New Year Festival is the lion and dragon dancing. Groups of dancers dressed in elaborate costumes and masks perform to the rhythm of drums, gongs, and cymbals. The dance is believed to ward off evil spirits and bring good luck for the coming year. If you haven't seen a lion or dragon dance before, then you are in for a treat. Just make sure you don't get too close to the performers, or you might get caught up in the excitement and start dancing yourself.
Red Envelopes and Lucky Money
Giving and receiving red envelopes filled with lucky money is a traditional part of Lunar New Year Festival. The envelopes are usually given to children or unmarried adults, and the money inside is supposed to bring good luck and prosperity for the coming year. If you are lucky enough to receive a red envelope, make sure you thank the giver and then check to see how much money is inside. Just don't spend it all in one place!
Fireworks Galore
Fireworks are a big part of Lunar New Year Festival, and they are used to scare away evil spirits and bring good luck for the new year. If you are planning to celebrate the festival, then be prepared for a lot of noise as fireworks will be going off all around you. Just make sure you keep your distance, as fireworks can be dangerous if not handled properly. And don't forget to cover your ears!
Decorations Everywhere
If you walk around during Lunar New Year Festival, you will notice that everywhere is decorated with red and gold symbolism. Red is said to bring good luck and happiness, while gold represents wealth and prosperity. You will see red lanterns, banners with auspicious phrases, and paper cutouts of animals, flowers, and other symbols hanging from windows and doors. The decorations create a festive and welcoming atmosphere that is perfect for celebrating the new year.
Food, Glorious Food
Lunar New Year Festival is a time for feasting, and there is no shortage of delicious food to choose from. Traditional dishes include dumplings, fish, rice cakes, and sticky rice balls. Each food has a symbolic meaning and is believed to bring good luck for the coming year. Whether you are a meat lover or a vegetarian, there is something for everyone to enjoy. Just make sure you leave some room for dessert, as there will be plenty of sweet treats to indulge in.
Family Time
Lunar New Year Festival is a time for families to come together and celebrate. It is a time to catch up with relatives, exchange gifts, and share stories. If you are away from your family during the festival, then don't worry. You can still celebrate with friends or attend community events. The important thing is to spend time with people you care about and create new memories that you can cherish for years to come.
Superstitions and Traditions
Lunar New Year Festival is steeped in superstitions and traditions. For example, it is believed that you should clean your house before the festival to sweep away bad luck from the previous year. You should also avoid using sharp objects or scissors during the festival, as they are believed to cut off good luck. And if you are married, then you should give red envelopes to unmarried relatives as a way of passing on your good fortune. There are many more superstitions and traditions to discover, so be sure to ask your elders for advice.
Conclusion
Lunar New Year Festival 2017 is a time for celebration, reflection, and renewal. It is a time to let go of the past and look forward to the future with hope and optimism. Whether you are Chinese or not, the festival is a chance to learn about a rich and vibrant culture that has shaped the world in countless ways. So, embrace the festivities, try new foods, and enjoy the company of loved ones. Happy Lunar New Year!
As the Lunar New Year Festival approaches, it's time to prepare for the Great Chinese New Year Migration. People travel far and wide to be with their loved ones during this special time of year. From crowded airplanes to bumper-to-bumper traffic on highways, it's all worth it for those coveted red envelopes filled with money. But that's not the only thing that's red during the Lunar New Year. Chinese people also wear red underwear to banish bad luck and bring in good fortune. Just don't let anyone catch you in your lucky undies! Of course, no Lunar New Year celebration is complete without feasting. From dumplings to noodles to rice cakes, the food is endless and delicious. It's no wonder people often gain a few pounds during the festivities. But hey, it's a small price to pay for all that yummy goodness. One of the most exciting parts of the Lunar New Year is the lion dances and firecrackers. The dancers dressed as lions, complete with big heads and tails, move to the beat of drums and cymbals. Add some firecrackers to the mix, and you've got a whole lot of noise and excitement. Before the new year begins, it's customary to do a thorough cleaning of the house to sweep away any bad luck. This includes everything from dusting off bookshelves to dumping out old socks. Hey, a fresh start is always good. But let's get down to the real reason why everyone loves Lunar New Year: the red envelopes. It's a time for giving and receiving, and elders shower the younger generation with money-filled envelopes. But it's not just about the receiving. Giving red envelopes to children and relatives is also a way to share the wealth and show love. In the Chinese zodiac, each year is represented by an animal. For 2017, it's the Year of the Rooster. You'll see the rooster's image everywhere during the Lunar New Year, from stuffed animals to decorations to street performances. During the Lunar New Year, businesses, schools, and government offices all shut down so everyone can celebrate with their families. But don't worry, the festivities continue for days on end. Who needs work, anyway? As the new year begins, people set goals and make resolutions for the months to come. Maybe it's to learn a new skill, travel to a new place, or find love. Whatever it is, the Lunar New Year is the perfect time to start fresh. But above all, the Lunar New Year is a time for family and loved ones to come together. Whether it's around the dinner table or at a bustling street festival, the spirit of the holiday is all about unity and peace. And who wouldn't want more of that? So let's celebrate the Lunar New Year with open hearts and lots of red!Lunar New Year Festival 2017: A Hilarious Experience
The Preparation
It was the year of the rooster, and my family and I were excited to celebrate Lunar New Year in style. We spent a whole week preparing for the festival by cleaning the house, buying new clothes, and stocking up on food and decorations. The excitement was palpable, and we couldn't wait for the big day.
Keyword: Cleaning
- We cleaned every nook and cranny of the house to get rid of any negative energy that might bring bad luck in the new year.
- My mom even scrubbed the walls and ceilings, leaving us all wondering if she had gone a little too far with her cleaning frenzy.
- But hey, it's better to be safe than sorry, right?
Keyword: Clothes
- For Lunar New Year, it's customary to wear new clothes to symbolize a fresh start and new beginnings.
- My siblings and I got new outfits, and my mom even bought matching shirts for the whole family.
- Let's just say we looked like a walking advertisement for a clothing store.
Keyword: Food
- No Lunar New Year celebration is complete without a feast, and my family went all out.
- We had traditional dishes like dumplings, rice cakes, and fish, as well as some non-traditional options like pizza and fried chicken (hey, we're a modern family).
- By the end of the night, we were all stuffed and ready to hibernate for the rest of the winter.
The Festivities
The day of the festival finally arrived, and we headed to the local Chinese cultural center to join in on the festivities.
Keyword: Lion Dance
- We were greeted by a lion dance troupe, who put on an impressive show with their acrobatic moves and colorful costumes.
- My little cousin was so scared of the loud drums and cymbals that he clung onto my leg for dear life.
- But even he couldn't resist the lure of the lucky red envelopes that the lions handed out to the crowd.
Keyword: Games
- There were plenty of games and activities for people of all ages to enjoy.
- I tried my hand at the ring toss game, but my terrible aim meant that I went home empty-handed.
- My dad, on the other hand, won a giant stuffed rooster at the dart game (I suspect some foul play).
Keyword: Performances
- We watched a variety of performances, from traditional Chinese music and dance to modern pop songs.
- One particular act stood out to me - a group of elderly ladies who performed a synchronized fan dance.
- They may not have been as spry as the lion dancers, but they definitely had the audience's hearts.
The Conclusion
As the night drew to a close, we left the cultural center with full stomachs and happy memories.
Keyword: Red Envelopes
- We all received red envelopes filled with lucky money, which is a Lunar New Year tradition.
- My little cousin was ecstatic with his haul and immediately started planning what to spend it on.
- Meanwhile, I was already mentally calculating how much I could save.
Keyword: Family
- But beyond the food, games, and performances, what made the festival truly special was spending time with my family.
- We laughed, joked, and reminisced about past Lunar New Year celebrations.
- It's moments like these that make me grateful for our traditions and the memories they create.
All in all, Lunar New Year Festival 2017 was a hilarious and heartwarming experience that I'll never forget.
The End of the Lunar New Year Festival 2017
Well folks, it's that time again. The Lunar New Year Festival has come and gone, leaving us all with full bellies, fond memories, and perhaps a few too many red envelopes stuffed with cash. As we say goodbye to the Year of the Rooster and welcome in the Year of the Dog, let's take a moment to reflect on all the fun we've had over the past couple weeks.
First and foremost, let's talk about the food. Oh, the food! From crispy dumplings to sticky rice cakes, from tangy orange chicken to savory steamed fish, the Lunar New Year Festival is a veritable feast for the senses. I don't know about you, but my waistline definitely took a hit over the past couple weeks. But hey, it was totally worth it.
Of course, the Lunar New Year Festival isn't just about food. It's also about family, friends, and good times. Whether you spent the holiday with your immediate family, your extended relatives, or your chosen family of friends, I hope you had a blast. Personally, I got to catch up with some old friends I haven't seen in ages, and even made some new ones along the way.
One of my favorite parts of the Lunar New Year Festival is the decorations. From vibrant red lanterns to intricate paper cutouts, the festival truly transforms the streets and homes into a visual feast. And let's not forget about the lion dances and dragon parades! Even if you're not superstitious, there's something undeniably exciting about watching those colorful creatures dance and weave their way through the crowds.
Now, I know that not everyone celebrates the Lunar New Year Festival. Maybe you're from a different cultural background, or maybe you're just not that into holidays in general. That's totally cool! But I still invite you to appreciate the spirit of the festival. It's about coming together, celebrating life, and spreading joy and good luck.
So as we bid adieu to the Year of the Rooster and say hello to the Year of the Dog, let's keep that spirit alive all year long. Whether you're a Rooster, a Dog, or any other animal under the Chinese zodiac, may this new year bring you happiness, health, and prosperity. And who knows, maybe we'll see each other again at next year's Lunar New Year Festival!
Until then, keep on celebrating, keep on eating, and keep on spreading joy. Gong xi fa cai!
People Also Ask About Lunar New Year Festival 2017
What is Lunar New Year?
Lunar New Year, also known as Chinese New Year or Spring Festival, is the most important traditional festival in China and other Asian countries. It marks the beginning of a new year according to the lunar calendar.
When is Lunar New Year 2017?
Lunar New Year falls on January 28th, 2017, which is the first day of the Chinese lunar calendar.
How is Lunar New Year celebrated?
Lunar New Year is celebrated with various customs and traditions such as family reunions, feasting on special foods, offering prayers, giving red envelopes filled with money, and playing games like mahjong. The festival is also marked with colorful parades and dragon dances.
What are some traditional foods for Lunar New Year?
- Dumplings: symbolize wealth and prosperity
- Fish: represents abundance and surplus
- Niangao (sticky rice cake): signifies progress and higher income
- Spring rolls: resemble gold bars and bring wealth
What is the zodiac animal for 2017?
The zodiac animal for 2017 is the Rooster, which is associated with good fortune, honesty, and hard work.
Why is red a significant color during Lunar New Year?
Red is considered a lucky color in Chinese culture. During Lunar New Year, people decorate their homes with red lanterns, wear red clothing, and give red envelopes filled with money as a symbol of good luck and blessings.
What should I not do during Lunar New Year?
- Avoid sweeping or cleaning on the first day of Lunar New Year, as it is believed to sweep away good luck.
- Avoid wearing black or white, as they are associated with mourning and death.
- Avoid breaking or damaging anything, as it is considered bad luck.