Discovering the Last Days of Chinese New Year 2012: When Does the Festivity End?
When Does Chinese New Year End 2012? This is a question that people ask themselves every year. Chinese New Year is one of the most important holidays in China, and it lasts for 15 days. The celebration is filled with fun, traditions, and delicious food. If you're planning to celebrate Chinese New Year, you might be wondering when it ends.
First things first, let's talk about the history of Chinese New Year. It originated in China more than 4,000 years ago when people believed in mythical creatures and gods. According to legends, a terrible beast called Nian would come during the winter to terrorize villages and eat their livestock. So, the villagers started to use loud noises, red decorations, and firecrackers to scare off the creature. This is why we still use these elements to celebrate Chinese New Year today.
Now, back to the question at hand - when does Chinese New Year end in 2012? Well, Chinese New Year officially begins on January 23, 2012, which marks the start of the Year of the Dragon. The celebration lasts for 15 days, until February 6, 2012. However, the festivities don't stop there!
On the 7th day of Chinese New Year, it is common to have a big family reunion dinner to celebrate Renri (Human Day). On the 9th day, people honor the Jade Emperor, the supreme deity in Chinese mythology, by offering him sacrifices and burning incense. And on the 15th day, the celebration culminates with the Lantern Festival, where families gather to eat tangyuan (sweet glutinous rice balls) and release lanterns into the sky.
But why does Chinese New Year last for 15 days? Well, in ancient times, people used a lunar calendar to determine the beginning and end of each year. Each month had 29 or 30 days, so a year had only 354 days - 11 days less than the solar calendar used today. To make up for this difference, an extra month was added every few years. As a result, Chinese New Year falls on a different date each year and lasts for 15 days to include the first full moon of the year.
Now that you know when Chinese New Year ends in 2012, you might be wondering how to celebrate it. There are many traditions to follow, such as cleaning your house to sweep away bad luck, decorating with red lanterns and posters, giving red envelopes filled with money to children (hongbao), and eating delicious dishes like dumplings and fish. You can even watch dragon and lion dances, participate in temple fairs, and set off firecrackers!
However, it's important to remember that Chinese New Year is not just about the festivities, but also about spending time with family and friends. It's a time to reflect on the past year, make resolutions for the future, and wish for good luck and fortune.
In conclusion, Chinese New Year will end in 2012 on February 6th, but the celebration continues until the Lantern Festival on February 17th. You now know the history behind Chinese New Year and some of the traditions that come with it. So, what are you waiting for? Go dust off those red decorations, prepare some tasty food, and gather your loved ones to celebrate the Year of the Dragon!
"When Does Chinese New Year End 2012" ~ bbaz
When Does Chinese New Year End 2012?
Every year, the Chinese people celebrate the Chinese New Year, which is also known as the Spring Festival. It is a time for family reunions, feasting, and welcoming the coming of spring. In 2012, the Chinese New Year began on January 23rd, with the Chinese Zodiac sign of the dragon. The question that many people ask is when does the Chinese New Year end in 2012?
The 15-Day Celebration
The Chinese New Year celebration lasts for 15-days. It ends on the 15th day of the first lunar month, which falls on February 6th, 2012. This date is also known as the Lantern Festival, where families gather to eat rice dumplings and release colorful lanterns into the sky.
During these 15 days, the Chinese people follow many traditions and customs. They clean their homes to sweep away bad luck, give money in red envelopes to children and the elderly, and prepare special New Year dishes. It is a time to honor their ancestors, visit relatives and friends, and wish each other good fortune and prosperity in the new year.
The Year of the Dragon
The Chinese New Year is based on the lunar calendar, and each year is represented by one of the 12 zodiac animals. 2012 was the year of the dragon, which is considered the most auspicious sign in the Chinese zodiac. The dragon symbolizes strength, power, and good luck.
The Chinese believe that those born in the year of the dragon are destined for success, and many couples plan to have babies during this time to ensure their child's future prosperity. Businesses and brands also use the dragon in their logos and promotions to attract customers and boost sales.
The Global Celebration
Chinese New Year is not only celebrated in China, but it is also a global event. Many countries with significant Chinese populations, such as Singapore, Malaysia, and Vietnam, observe the holiday with their unique traditions and customs. It has also gained popularity in western countries, where people of all ethnicities join in the festivities.
In 2012, various events and activities were held worldwide to celebrate the Chinese New Year. In Sydney, Australia, they had a dragon boat race, while in London, England, they held a parade featuring traditional lion and dragon dancers. Even the White House in Washington D.C. hosted a Chinese New Year celebration, with President Obama sending greetings in Mandarin.
The Significance of the Chinese New Year
The Chinese New Year is more than just a festive occasion. It holds deep significance in Chinese culture and tradition. It is a time to show respect for one's family and ancestors, to pray for good luck and prosperity, and to reflect on the past year's achievements and challenges.
As the Chinese New Year ends, the celebrations may be over, but the spirit of the occasion continues throughout the year. The Chinese believe that the actions taken in the first few days of the new year will have an impact on the rest of the year. They will continue to work hard, seek opportunities, and maintain strong ties with family and friends to ensure a successful and happy year ahead.
Conclusion
The Chinese New Year is a vibrant and exciting time for the Chinese people and those who join in the festivities worldwide. The end of the Chinese New Year in 2012 falls on February 6th, 15-days after its start. It is a time to celebrate, show gratitude, and look towards a bright future. May the year of the dragon bring good fortune, prosperity, and happiness to all who celebrate!
When Does Chinese New Year End 2012: A Comprehensive Comparison
Introduction
Chinese New Year, also known as Lunar New Year or Spring Festival, is one of the most significant traditional holidays in China. It's celebrated for 15 days, during which people gather with family and friends, share meals, exchange gifts, and participate in various cultural activities. However, the exact end date of Chinese New Year can vary depending on different factors. In this blog article, we will compare and contrast the dates for Chinese New Year's end in 2012 based on different calendars, regions, and customs.The Gregorian Calendar vs. The Lunar Calendar
The Gregorian calendar, also known as the Western calendar, is widely used in the world as the standard for civil purposes. It has 365 or 366 days in a year, and each year starts on January 1st and ends on December 31st. However, the lunar calendar, which is used for traditional holidays in China, is based on the cycles of the moon and has only 354 or 355 days in a year. Therefore, Chinese New Year falls on a different date on the Gregorian calendar every year. In 2012, Chinese New Year began on January 23rd and ended on February 6th according to the lunar calendar.The Mainland China vs. Hong Kong and Macau
Although Chinese New Year is celebrated nationwide in China, there are some differences in customs and public holidays between mainland China and Hong Kong/Macau. In mainland China, Chinese New Year's Eve and the first three days of Chinese New Year are designated as public holidays, while in Hong Kong and Macau, the first three days and the fourth day of Chinese New Year are holidays. As a result, businesses and government agencies are closed for a longer period in mainland China than in Hong Kong and Macau. Consequently, the end of Chinese New Year is later in Hong Kong and Macau than in mainland China. In 2012, Chinese New Year ended on February 9th in Hong Kong and Macau.The Northern China vs. Southern China
China is a vast country with diverse geography, climate, and customs. Therefore, there are also some regional differences in the way people celebrate Chinese New Year and the dates for its end. For instance, in northern China, people tend to eat dumplings, visit temples, and watch lantern shows during Chinese New Year, while in southern China, people prefer seafood, temple fairs, and lion dances. Moreover, southern China has a milder climate and earlier springtime than northern China. Thus, the end of Chinese New Year is usually earlier in southern China than in northern China. In 2012, Chinese New Year ended on February 8th in southern China.The Animal Zodiac Sign
In Chinese astrology, every year is associated with an animal zodiac sign, which rotates in a 12-year cycle. The animal zodiac sign of a person is determined by his/her year of birth, and it's believed to influence his/her personality and destiny. The 12 animal zodiac signs are Rat, Ox, Tiger, Rabbit, Dragon, Snake, Horse, Goat, Monkey, Rooster, Dog, and Pig. The year 2012 was the Year of the Dragon, which is considered a lucky and powerful sign. According to Chinese tradition, people born in the Year of the Dragon are confident, ambitious, creative, and loyal. They are also expected to face challenges and opportunities during their zodiac year. Therefore, the end of Chinese New Year 2012 had special meaning for people born in the Year of the Dragon.The Festivities Conclusion
Chinese New Year is an amazing festival full of traditions, symbolism, and joy. It's a time to honor ancestors, reunite with loved ones, and hope for good fortune in the new year. Although the end date of Chinese New Year might vary depending on different factors, the essence of the holiday remains the same: gratitude, love, and optimism. As we bid farewell to Chinese New Year 2012, let's cherish the memories, learn from the experience, and welcome the challenges and opportunities of the Year of the Dragon.Table Comparison
| Factors | Mainland China | Hong Kong and Macau | Northern China | Southern China ||------------------------------|-------------------|-------------------|-------------------|--------------------|| End Date (Lunar Calendar) | February 6, 2012 | February 9, 2012 | February 7, 2012 | February 8, 2012 || Public Holidays | Jan. 22 to Jan. 28 | Jan. 23 to Jan. 26 | Jan. 22 to Jan. 28 | Jan. 22 to Jan. 28 || Regional Customs | Dumplings, Temples | Seafood, Fairs | Dumplings, Lanterns | Seafood, Lion Dance || Animal Zodiac Sign | Dragon | Dragon | Dragon | Dragon |Conclusion
In conclusion, the end date of Chinese New Year in 2012 can be compared and contrasted based on various factors, such as the Gregorian calendar vs. the lunar calendar, mainland China vs. Hong Kong and Macau, northern China vs. southern China, and the animal zodiac sign. Each factor adds a unique perspective to the holiday, which reflects the diversity and richness of Chinese culture. Regardless of which factor you prefer or relate to, the end goal of Chinese New Year is the same: to celebrate life, family, and tradition. Happy New Year, and may the Year of the Dragon bless you with happiness, health, and prosperity!When Does Chinese New Year End 2021?
Introduction
Chinese New Year is the most important traditional Chinese holiday celebrated by millions of people around the world. The holiday period lasts for 15 days and marks the start of a new year according to the lunar calendar. Chinese New Year is also known as Spring Festival. The 2021 Chinese New Year celebrations officially began on 12th February 2021 and will end on 26th February 2021.The Significance of Chinese New Year
Chinese New Year marks the beginning of a new year and is the time for families to unite and celebrate. The holiday is steeped in traditions and customs that have been passed down for generations. It is believed that the holiday is a time of renewal that invites good fortune and well wishes for the upcoming year. Each year is represented by one of the twelve zodiac animals which are Rat, Ox, Tiger, Rabbit, Dragon, Snake, Horse, Goat, Monkey, Rooster, Dog and Pig.The 15-Day Festival
The first day of the Chinese New Year is celebrated with the lighting of firecrackers and the exchange of red envelopes filled with money. The second day is considered the birthday of dogs, and the fifth day is known as the god of wealth day. On the seventh day, known as Human Day, everyone becomes one year older, and this day is dedicated to throwing birthday parties. The festival climaxes with the Lantern Festival, where people light lanterns and release them into the sky.The End of Chinese New Year
The 15th day of the Chinese New Year festival marks the end of the celebration. This day is also called the Lantern Festival as it is when people light and release lanterns into the sky. Traditional food like Tangyuan, a sweet glutinous rice ball, is served, and there are parades with dragon and lion dances.Tangyuan – Sweet Glutinous Rice Balls Recipe
If you want to experience the full traditions of Chinese New Year, why not try making Tangyuan at home! Here’s an easy-to-follow recipe for this delicious sweet treat:Ingredients: 1 cup glutinous rice flour Water 1 cup sesame seeds 1 1/4 cups sugar Instructions:1. For the dough: In a mixing bowl, mix the glutinous rice flour and water until it forms a soft, smooth dough.2. Divide the dough into small portions and roll them into balls.3. Boil a pot of water and add in the dough balls. Cook until they float to the surface.4. In another pan, toast the sesame seeds over low heat for about 2 minutes, then chutney them in a blender.5. In a saucepan, mix the sugar with 1/2 cup of water and heat until the sugar has dissolved completely to form a syrup.6. Place the cooked dough balls into the syrup and stir until coated. Then transfer them to a plate and top with toasted sesame seeds.In Conclusion
Chinese New Year is one of the most vibrant and colourful festivals celebrated around the world. The 2021 Chinese New Year started on 12th February and will end on 26th February. It is a time for unity, renewal and celebration. Don't miss your chance to experience this holiday and try some traditional food like Tangyuan to fully immerse yourself in all the festivities!When Does Chinese New Year End 2012?
Chinese New Year is the most celebrated festival in China. It is a time where people gather with their families and friends to celebrate the arrival of a new year. The actual date of the festival varies every year because it is based on the lunar calendar. It falls between the end of January and mid-February. In 2012, the Chinese New Year began on January 23rd, so when does Chinese New Year end 2012?
The Chinese New Year celebrations are not only celebrated in China, but also in other countries around the world with large Chinese populations. In many places, the celebration usually lasts for 15 days. During this period, there are different traditions and customs which include fireworks, parades, dragon dances, and exchanging of red envelopes containing money, among others.
The last day of the Chinese New Year is known as the Lantern Festival. It is celebrated on the fifteenth day of the first lunar month, which falls on February 6th, 2012. The lantern festival is an important part of the Chinese New Year celebrations. It marks the end of the holiday season and also the beginning of planting season for farmers in China.
The Lantern Festival is mainly characterized by the display of colorful lanterns, hence its name. People light and hang lanterns in public places, homes, and temples. It is also a custom to make and eat tangyuan, a sweet glutinous rice ball that symbolizes family unity, completeness, and happiness.
In China, the Lantern Festival is a public holiday. The festivities usually start in the morning with a dragon dance and lion dance performance. People also enjoy watching a traditional Chinese art form called bian lian, which means face changing, usually performed by Sichuan opera performers. The night is filled with bright and vivid lantern displays, and in some places, people release flying lanterns into the sky.
At midnight, it is customary to eat yuanxiao, another type of sweet glutinous rice ball that symbolizes family harmony and happiness. Yuanxiao is different from tangyuan because it is round and small and has a filling inside. Some people also write riddles on pieces of paper and put them in yuanxiao for others to guess.
The Lantern Festival is not only celebrated in China but also in other parts of the world. In places like Taiwan, Malaysia, Singapore, and Hong Kong, the festival is also a public holiday. Even non-Chinese communities in these places celebrate the day by lighting up lanterns, eating tangyuan or yuanxiao, or participating in lion dances and dragon dances.
In the past, Chinese New Year was celebrated for an entire month, but now it is mostly celebrated for 15 days. Each day has its unique meaning and tradition. The first day of the Chinese New Year usually involves visiting family, cleaning the house, and setting off firecrackers. The second day is reserved for married daughters to visit their parents. The fifth day is known as the birthday of the God of Wealth, and businesses usually reopen on the seventh day.
The tenth day of the Chinese New Year is the Day of the God of Stone, and people usually avoid doing any important things like moving homes, getting married, or starting businesses. The fifteenth day is, of course, the Lantern Festival, and it marks the end of the festival season.
In conclusion, the Chinese New Year festivities end on February 6th, 2012, with the celebration of the Lantern Festival. It is a day that marks the end of the holiday season and the start of another season for farmers. It is a celebration of family, happiness, and unity, and it is characterized by colorful lantern displays, tangyuan, yuanxiao, dragon dances, lion dances, and other traditional customs. Happy Chinese New Year!
Thank you for reading this article on when does Chinese New Year end 2012. We hope that you found this information useful and informative. Remember that the most important part of any celebration is the time spent with loved ones. We wish you and your family a happy and prosperous new year filled with lots of love, fortune, and success. May this year bring happiness and good health to all. Happy New Year!
When Does Chinese New Year End 2012: FAQs
What is Chinese New Year?
Chinese New Year, also known as Spring Festival, is the most important traditional festival in China. It is a time for family reunions, feasting, and celebrating the coming of a new year on the lunar calendar.
When does Chinese New Year begin and end in 2012?
Chinese New Year in 2012 began on January 23rd (Chinese Lunar New Year's Eve) and ended on February 6th (the 15th day of the first lunar month).
Why does the date of Chinese New Year change every year?
Unlike the Gregorian calendar used in Western countries, the Chinese calendar is based on the cycles of the moon. Therefore, the date of Chinese New Year falls between January 21st and February 20th each year, depending on the lunar calendar.
How do Chinese people celebrate Chinese New Year?
Chinese New Year celebrations include family gatherings, feasting on traditional foods, setting off fireworks, and giving red envelopes filled with money to children. Many people also decorate their homes with red lanterns and couplets to bring good luck and ward off evil spirits.
Is Chinese New Year celebrated outside of China?
Yes, Chinese New Year is celebrated by many people around the world, especially in countries with significant Chinese populations. In fact, it is one of the largest and most widely celebrated festivals in the world.
What are some other customs associated with Chinese New Year?
Some common customs include cleaning one's house to rid it of bad luck, visiting friends and relatives to exchange New Year's greetings, and watching the CCTV New Year's Gala, a televised event featuring music, dance, and comedy performances.
What year is it in the Chinese zodiac for 2012?
2012 is the Year of the Dragon, which is considered to be an auspicious and powerful symbol in Chinese culture.
Are there any taboos or superstitions associated with Chinese New Year?
Yes, there are many taboos and superstitions associated with Chinese New Year, such as avoiding using sharp objects (which could cut off good fortune), not washing one's hair on New Year's Day (which could wash away good luck), and not sweeping the floor (which could sweep away good fortune).