Buzz
China, a vast nation with an ancient culture, is considered the hottest spot whenever the traditional Lunar New Year, or Tet in general, is mentioned in East Asia. What do the Chinese people do in particular during these days to welcome their new year?
1. Horse Racing Excitement
The first horse race of the new year is the most anticipated 'match' in dozens of races held throughout the year and usually takes place on the third day of the spring festival.
The racecourse is where one should know what to do with the red envelopes received on Tet day. True or not, Traditional Tet for the Chinese is the gambling season, both for 'professionals' and amateurs alike. They eagerly flock to the racecourse, with a 'roll-the-dice' attitude, much like how it's done in casinos all over Macao.
Apart from betting on their favorite horse, festival-goers can witness traditional lion dances, spin lucky wheels, and consult some fortune-teller to predict their destiny in the new year. So even the less fortunate gamblers still have a reason to enjoy themselves here.
2. Offering Incense for Good Fortune
Thousands of Buddhist followers embark on a pilgrimage to offer incense on the first day of the new year. The seemingly endless lines of incense bearers, raising bundles of 3 (or multiples of 3) smoking sticks, might appear puzzling but ignite the curiosity of many foreign tourists. The Chinese believe that sincere devotion will bring divine protection for a prosperous and lucky new year.
If intrigued, try joining such a procession once. Remember to raise your hands high to avoid poking someone else's eye with the incense stick. Sometimes, these lengthy processions conclude at a temple only by... midnight.
3. Eating Symbolic Lucky Foods
China, vast and populous with diverse ethnicities, leads to varied traditional Lunar New Year foods in different regions, but there's always the presence of baozi (steamed buns). Alongside, other typical dishes include: taro cakes, radish cakes, jau gok (crispy fried dumplings), bao, and babaofan.
For many Chinese families, fish is also crucial during the traditional Lunar New Year, akin to turkey on Thanksgiving. In Mandarin, the word for 'fish' ('yu') sounds similar to 'surplus,' symbolizing a year of abundance. It also means that if you're invited to eat in a Chinese household, don't try to finish all the food on the table. Similarly, 'niangao' (glutinous rice cake) has a homophonic association with 'year increasing,' signifying progress and prosperity.
For those celebratory gatherings to welcome the new year, the 'community spirit' of hot pot makes it a popular choice during this time of the year.
4. Watch Gala Shows on CCTV
Welcoming the new year in China without watching a Spring Festival Gala show on CCTV is a significant miss. The Spring Festival Gala is a national annual television program, lasting 5 hours, broadcasted live on New Year's Eve from 7:00 PM until well past midnight.
Apart from presenting viewers with songs, dances, acrobatics, and comedy, organizing a lengthy broadcast (without breaking commercial viability) also serves as a platform for government propaganda. The program has 'evolved' to become a way to let the public know who the 'favorites' are this year while directly bridging Chinese culture to overseas Chinese.
5. Nationwide Fireworks Display
In most places in China, the New Year fireworks in Hong Kong are the biggest displays of the year. The thunderous boom echoes incessantly for 20 minutes, attracting over 300,000 people along the riverbanks. Across the border in mainland China, where fireworks and firecrackers are not prohibited, millions of people set off fireworks everywhere, illuminating the night sky on New Year's Eve.
6. Tet Market Shopping
New Year markets offer essentials for the spring festival: flowers, sweets, clothing, decorations, and various other items.
Throughout the year, markets operate steadily, but Tet markets are bustling, opening a few days before the new year and extending into late hours, even into the night. Stalls emphasize strongly on food to supplement end-of-year family gatherings or discounted clothing at various price points.
7. Cherry Blossom Viewing
This might not be the time for full blooms, as April is the month for the most beautiful blossoms. However, the spring festival is a suitable time to admire cherry blossoms. Representing prosperity and love, cherry blossoms play a significant role in the traditional Tet day. Those in love hope to strengthen their bonds, while the lonely seek love under the blossoming branches.
According to Depplus
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Reference: Travel Guide by Mytour
MytourNovember 18, 2015
