How to celebrate Chinese New Years?

Question

I'm always interested in learning about other cultures and embracing their holidays. Although, I don't know much about the Chinese New Year. I know that it starts on Sunday, but at what time? Also, I want to celebrate it, so how would I start? Are there any traditions that should be followed prior to Sunday, and what other things should be observed throughout the New Year? What do each of the 15 days of Chinese New Year symbolize, and what is usually done throughout those days? Is there anything that is done in this time to help welcome a healthy, happy, New Year? Are there any supersticions that follow with this holiday? What things should be done and avoided during this time to embrace the traditions that come with this holiday?

Answer 1

I don't know anything about symbolism.

Well, you can't sweep the floor on Chinese New Year. But on the day(s) before, you must spring clean.

Married couples usually are supposed to give red packets to the children (or other people) good luck.

Never stick chopsticks upright. This is a sign of offering for the dead.

It is bad luck to break things on Chinese New Year(but you can't sweep it up...o.O).

Red is an auspicious(lucky) colour to wear, but avoid black. Black symbolises death.

I'll try to think of more. =)

Answer 2

the tradition isn't just for the chinese, i dont know why they call it that. gets annoying.. but

decorate your house with different types of trees specifically spring trees especially for new year (look online) trees with spring flowers on them.

buy new year food. anything wrapped in red that says happy chinese new year =) there's lots but i dont know what to call them in english.

in tradition, when you give the red envelope to someone they're supposed to wish you good health, happiness, blah blah.
they're taught to do so since they were little ;)

if you want to, search for places with parades embracing the holiday. if you live in the bay area, san francisco and san jose have lots =)
hope that helps
Happy Chinese New Year! Chuc Mung Nam Moi!

Answer 3

Eat ham and blow off fireworks