The Origin and Customs of Chinese New Year's Eve and Holiday Notice

Today is January 28th, which marks Chinese New Year's Eve (Chúxī), a traditional Chinese festival. From January 28, 2025, to February 4, 2025, it is the statutory holiday in China. During this holiday period, we will continue to provide 24-hour online service.

The Origin of Chinese New Year's Eve
Chinese New Year's Eve, also known as "Nian San Shi" (the thirtieth night of the lunar year), has a legend associated with it. According to the legend, there was a fierce monster named Nian that would harm people at the end of the year. Later, people discovered that the monster was afraid of the color red and loud noises. As a result, on the night of the thirtieth, families would post red couplets and set off firecrackers to drive away the Nian monster. This custom has been passed down through generations, and the night became known as Chinese New Year's Eve.

Customs of Chinese New Year's Eve

New Year's Eve Dinner: Also known as the family reunion dinner, it is the most lively and joyous time for families on Chinese New Year's Eve. On this night, a lavish feast is served with various dishes, and family members gather around the table to enjoy the meal together.

Posting Spring Couplets: Spring couplets, also known as door couplets or "chunlian", are a unique form of literature in China. They consist of concise, well-structured, and balanced phrases that reflect the wishes for a prosperous and harmonious new year. These couplets are typically posted on doorways to bring good luck and fortune.

Ancestral Worship: Ancestral worship is an important tradition on Chinese New Year's Eve. In many places across China, people prepare offerings of food, light incense, and the head of the family leads the younger members in bowing to their ancestors to show respect and gratitude.