Lunar New Year or as many of us know it Chinese New Years falls on Friday February 12th, this year. 

Lunar New Years is celebrated throughout the world and can last for weeks. 2021 is the Year of the Ox. The Ox is a symbol of hardwork, persistence and honesty. 

There are 12 Zodiac signs each year has its own animal sign: Rooster, Dog, Pig, Rat, Ox, Tiger, Rabbit, Dragon, Snake, Horse, Goat, and Monkey.

Red is the main colour of this holiday, as it is believed to be a lucky (auspicious) colour. Red lanterns, decorations of Oxen and red envelops filled with money are commonly seen.

On New Year’s Eve, families traditionally gather to celebrate the new year. First, homes are thoroughly cleaned to sweep away bad luck and to welcome good luck. At midnight  fireworks are usually lit at midnight. Festivals that include parades with dragon and lion dances are seen in neighbourhoods and families pay homage to the gods and their ancestors. Children receive money in red envelopes and gifts are exchanged between family members.

However, this year will be different due to the pandemic. Families are being asked not to travel to see extended family. There will be no parades or lion dances or the Lantern Festival.

Hopefully the year of the Ox will bring an end to the pandemic with vaccines being administered.

So althought you cannot meet your family and have the usual Lunar New Year Celebrations.

Xin Nian Kuai Le!

(New Year Happiness!) 

or 

Gong Xi Fa Cai!

(Happiness and Prosperity!)