Since the mid-1990s people in China have been given seven consecutive days off work during the Chinese New Year. This week of relaxation has been designated Spring Festival, a term that is sometimes used to refer to the Chinese New Year in general. The origins of the Chinese New Year are steeped in legend. One legend is that thousands of years Chinese New Year is the most important holiday in China. Tied to the Chinese lunar calendar, it begins on the new moon that appears between January 21 and February 20. The holiday was Chinese New Year has enjoyed a history of about 3,500 years. Its exact beginning is not recorded. Some people believe that Chinese New Year originated in the Shang Dynasty (1600–1046 BC), when people held sacrificial ceremonies in honor of gods and ancestors at the beginning or the end of each year. Chinese New Year's Eve and the first 3 days of Chinese New Year; will be made up on subsequent working days if any of the 4 days fall on Saturday or Sunday. The day before Chinese New Year's Eve is also designated as holiday, but as a bridge holiday, and will be made up on an earlier or later Saturday. Chinese New Year falls on the second new moon after the winter solstice. Other Asian countries such as Korea, Japan, and Vietnam also celebrate the new year using the lunar calendar. While Buddhism and Daoism have unique customs during the New Year, Chinese New Year is far older than both religions. Chinese New Year has a history of about 3,500 years. Its exact beginning date is not recorded. Some people believe that Chinese New Year originated in the Shang Dynasty (1600–1046 BC), when people held sacrificial ceremonies in honor of gods and ancestors at the beginning or the end of each year. The history of Chinese New Year can be dated back to 3,800 years ago. Its origin was the worshiping activities for harvest in Shang Dynasty (17th century -1046 BC). Legendary tales and mythological creatures are interwoven throughout the history of Chinese New Year. One of the most famous is the story of the Nian monster. According to folklore, on the night before the new year, the Nian would emerge from its dwelling and rampage through villages, devouring livestock and people. Chinese New Year, also known as the Lunar New Year or Spring Festival, is the most important traditional festival. Falling on the first day of the lunar calendar, the Chinese New Year has a history of over 4000 years. new year market Chinese New Year Origin: 4000 Years Ago. Chinese New Year can be traced back to 4000 years ago. Learn how Chinese New Year evolved from a farming festival to a 15-day celebration with colourful traditions and legends. Discover the myth of Nian, the date fixation by Emperor Wudi, and the modern innovations of the Spring Festival. Chinese New Year is the most important holiday in China. Tied to the Chinese lunar calendar, it begins on the new moon that appears between January 21 and February 20. The holiday was The much-awaited Lunar New Year, also known as Chinese New Year celebrations has officially begun today, January 29, 2025. Marking the arrival of the Year of the Snake, the festival is observed by millions across the world, with public holidays extending from January 28 to February 4. The History and Origins of Chinese New Year Lanterns Chinese lanterns have a rich history dating back over 2,000 years to the Han Dynasty (206 BCE – 220 CE). Their use in New Year celebrations evolved from religious practices to become a widespread cultural tradition. Can you guess which 2 creatures of the zodiac are the most important symbols of Chinese New Year? Get the full history of the holiday. #HistoryChannelSubscri Chinese New Year's Eve and the first 3 days of Chinese New Year; will be made up on subsequent working days if any of the 4 days fall on Saturday or Sunday. The day before Chinese New Year's Eve is also designated as holiday, but as a bridge holiday, and will be made up on an earlier or later Saturday. History of Chinese New Year Before Chinese New Year’s Celebration Celebrations on New Year’s Eve 15-Day Celebration of CNY ___ History of Chinese New Year The origins of the Chinese New Year festival are thousands of years old and are steeped in legends but it is unclear when the beginning of the year was celebrated before the Qin Dynasty. Find History on Facebook (Opens in a new window) Find History on Twitter (Opens in a new window) The 15-day long Chinese New Year celebration originated from an ancient Chinese legend of the The Chinese New Year of 2025 falls on January 29th (Wednesday), and will last to February 2nd. It is the Year of Snake.As an official public holiday, Chinese people can get eight days' off from work, from January 28th to February 4th. Can you guess which 2 creatures of the zodiac are the most important symbols of Chinese New Year? Get the full history of the holiday. When does Chinese New Year start? Chinese New Year in 2025 starts on Wednesday, Jan. 29. When does Chinese New Year end? Chinese New Year in 2025 lasts until the Lantern Festival on Feb. 12.
Articles and news, personal stories, interviews with experts.
Photos from events, contest for the best costume, videos from master classes.