Did You Know?
Facts, Figures & Folklore
about the Chinese New Year
Jan. 29 : 05 Days to Chinese NY

Did you know that youngsters traditionally receive a gift of money from their parents or other elders on Chinese New Year?

The money, an omen of good luck for the coming year, is presented in a red envelope decorated with gold symbols of good fortune. Called Lai See, a red envelope is also traditionally given to couples on their wedding day and to children on their birthdays.

From Bangkok to New York’s Chinatown, the Chinese New Year is the pinnacle celebration for billions of Chinese people around the world. The Chinese New Year is the most important and elaborate holiday in Chinese culture. More than any other Chinese holiday, the New Year stresses the importance of familial ties. Whether it’s family gatherings or citywide celebrations, the New Year is a time rich in traditions and ancient superstitions

Chinese New Year 2011, the Year of the Rabbit, begins on February 03rd and continues for 15 days, through the end of the full moon.

Signup for our Did You Know? Holiday Countdown emails or follow us on Twitter – twitter.com/holidaysnet (@holidaysnet)

Freethinker’s Day / Thomas Paine Day
Observing the birthday of Thomas Paine, the author of Common Sense which advocated the independence of the American Colonies.