Chinese New Year" begins on the first day of the first moon, which means that it can begin any time from January 21 through February 19. It is a festival celebrated in Asian communities all over the world.
The Chinese Lunar Calendar is a combination of mathematics and symbols that date back to the twenty-seventh century B.C. Twelve animals are associated with the calendar - the rat, ox, tiger, hare, dragon, serpent, horse, ram, monkey, rooster, dog and boar.
Asians begin preparing for Chinese New Year weeks ahead by cleaning their houses and buying new clothes. Once the house is clean it is decorated with red banners that say "good luck" in Chinese symbols. The home is filled with fruit and flowers - intended to bring good luck in the year ahead.
Each day of the Chinese New Year has a special theme. The first day is "Family Day" and all family members gather together for a feast. If a member of the family can't attend the celebration, a place at the table is still set for them.
The Night of the Dragon parade is a highlight of the festivities. The Great Golden Dragon is thought to dispel bad spirits and is paraded down the street in a ritual that often takes many hours.
The last day of the New Year is celebrated with tens of thousands of paper lanterns, called "The Feast of Lanterns". They are made in all shapes, colors and sizes and are hung on porches and in yards
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