The story of “年(nian)” (Year) and the Spring Festival encompasses a rich history and folklore tradition. Below, I will relate the legend of “年,” followed by the origins and customs associated with the Chinese Spring Festival.
The Legend of “年” (Year)
There are several versions of the legend of “年,” but the most prevalent one revolves around a fearsome beast:
- The Beast “年”:
- Ancient China was plagued by a monster called “年,” with long horns, sharp teeth, and immense strength. It lived deep in the sea and emerged on the eve of New Year’s Eve to devour livestock and harm humans. People gradually discovered that the beast was afraid of red color, firelight, and loud noises. Thus, every New Year’s Eve, families would paste red couplets on their doors, light firecrackers, and make loud noises to scare away the beast. After the beast was driven away, people would joyfully greet each other, saying, “We have survived another year.” Gradually, this became known as celebrating the New Year, and the customs surrounding it emerged.
The Origins and Customs of the Spring Festival
The Spring Festival, also known as Chinese New Year, is the most significant traditional festival in China, imbued with profound cultural heritage and historical traditions.
- Origins:
- The origins of the Spring Festival can be traced back to the year-end sacrifice rituals of ancient times, which evolved into the present celebration. Legend has it that Emperor Shun ascended the throne around 2000 BCE, and on the first day of the lunar year, he led his officials in offering sacrifices to Heaven and Earth. This day became known as the beginning of the year, or the first day of the lunar calendar. After the Revolution of 1911, to distinguish between the lunar and solar calendars, the first day of the lunar calendar was officially named the Spring Festival, a tradition that has continued to this day.
- Customs:
- Spring Cleaning: Before the Spring Festival, households undertake a thorough cleaning to sweep away the old and welcome in the new.
- Posting Couplets and Fú Characters: Families decorate their doors with red couplets and the Chinese character “fú,” symbolizing happiness and good fortune.
- Staying Up Late on New Year’s Eve: Families gather together to stay awake until midnight, bidding farewell to the old year and welcoming the new.
- Visiting Relatives and Giving Red Envelopes: On the first day of the New Year, younger generations visit their elders, who give them red envelopes containing money, believed to ward off evil spirits and bring good luck.
- Reunion Dinner: On New Year’s Eve, families share a special dinner, symbolizing unity and prosperity.
- Firing Firecrackers: Fireworks and firecrackers are ignited to scare away evil spirits and usher in blessings.
In addition to these customs, the Spring Festival is also marked by various festive activities such as dragon and lion dances, temple fairs, and lantern displays, all reflecting the Chinese people’s enthusiasm for and reverence for this grand occasion.
