Year of the Rabbit: Interesting facts about the Chinese and Lunar New Year
While many of us celebrated the New Year on December 31, for many members of our multicultural community, the Lunar New Year is the time to celebrate what the next 12 months will have in store.
THIS January, you will hear celebrations of the Lunar New Year, the Chinese New Year, and the Year of the Rabbit. But what are these celebrations all about? Here’s everything you need to know and how to celebrate.
What is the Chinese New Year?
The Chinese New Year, also known as the Lunar New Year or Spring Festival, is China’s most important festival. It is also the most important celebration for families and includes a week of official public holidays. The history of the Chinese New Year festival can be traced back to about 3 500 years ago. The Chinese New Year has evolved over a long period of time, and its customs have undergone a long developmental process.
When is the Chinese New Year?
The date of the Chinese New Year is decided by the Chinese Lunar Calendar, which is based on the cycles of the moon and sun and is generally 21–51 days behind the Gregorian (internationally used) calendar. The date changes every year, but it always falls between January 21 and February 20. The day is always on a new moon, usually the second after the winter solstice. The 12 animals of the Chinese zodiac are the Rat, Ox, Tiger, Rabbit, Dragon, Snake, Horse, Goat, Monkey, Rooster, Dog and Pig.
This year, the Chinese New Year falls on Sunday, January 22, and celebrations culminate with the Lantern Festival on February 5. Celebrations last up to 16 days, but only the first seven days are considered public holidays (January 22 – January 29, 2023). The Chinese New Year marks the transition between zodiac signs: 2022 was the Year of the Tiger; 2023 is the Year of the Rabbit. Preparations for the New Year begin on January 14 and last until New Year’s Eve. The Chinese New Year officially begins on January 22 and ends on February 1, but preparations for the Lantern Festival begin on the 2nd.
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What is the difference between the Chinese New Year and the Lunar New Year?
While they can be used interchangeably amongst some groups, there is a distinction. The Lunar New Year is celebrated on different dates by a variety of cultures. The Chinese New Year, while celebrating the same event, is the term used most commonly within China. In other countries that celebrate, the term ‘Lunar New Year’ is more widely used.
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Legend of the Origin of the Chinese New Year
The origin of the Chinese New Year is surrounded by myths and legends. One of the most popular legends is about the mythical beast, Nian (Year). He ate livestock, crops, and even people on the eve of a new year. To prevent Nian from attacking people and causing destruction, people put food at their doors for Nian. It’s said that a wise, old man figured out that Nian was scared of loud noises (firecrackers) and the colour red. So, people put red lanterns and red scrolls on their windows and doors to stop Nian from coming inside. Crackling bamboo (later replaced by firecrackers) was lit to scare Nian away.
Year of the Rabbit
The origin story in Chinese folklore goes back to an Emperor who wanted 12 animal guards and these guards raced for the highest order. The highest order was won by a rat (first year). We are now in the fourth animal phase on the Zodiac calendar – the rabbit. According to the Chinese Zodiac, those born in the Year of the Rabbit are seen as gentle, optimistic, approachable, elegant and noble. In Chinese culture, rabbits represent hope, tenderness and long life.
ENDS
