By Nate
Chinese New Year is based off the lunar calendar. It falls usually during February when it is the second full moon. During every Chinese New Year there is a zodiac that goes with it. There are 12 animals including: the rat, ox, snake, rabbit, horse, tiger, sheep, monkey, dog, pig, and dragon. 2015 is year of the goat and begins on Thursday, February 19th. The dragon is important to Chinese culture because many people think that we are evolved from them.
During Chinese New Year there are many customs that people follow such as; wearing red, getting a haircut, getting new clothes, etc. Most people wear red and gold, because the colors represent good luck and prosperity. People also clean their house because they want to get rid of the dust from last year. At CNY night people often gather with their families, make dumplings, and hang red lanterns. On CNY day people go and watch lion dances and set off firecrackers. Firecrackers represent scaring off bad luck from the past year. The lion dance is a costume that usually fits 2 people. However most people get it mixed up with dragon dance which can have up to 100 people holding the snake like body. The lion head is made up by a bamboo structure that has to be hand made. Some lion heads can weigh up to 50 pounds!
In Seattle's Chinatown there will be lots of festivities happening. Some are but not limited to, arts and crafts, performances, and lion dances. Most events will happen on the 21st at Hing Hay Park, admission is free.
Chinese New Year is a great festival that is similar to most new year celebrations so check out what's happening!
