1. Chinese New Year Researched By Laurel Conran

2. Background Information Centuries old event. Most Significant holiday. Largest human migration. A 15 day long celebration starting from 1/1 (Sunday) of the Lunar Calendar ( 農 曆新年 ). Ends on the 15th day, known as the Lantern Festival ( 元宵節 )

3. Fast Facts Official Name: People´s Republic of China Capital: Beijing Biggest City: Shanghai First Made in China: Paper, fireworks, kites, yo- yos, the abacus, playing cards.

4. Money The official currency of China is the yuan. 1 yuan is worth about 15 cents in U.S. dollars. Or $1.00 is about 7 yuan. =

5. The Zodiac The Chinese Zodiac is similar to the western 鼠 牛 虎 兔 龍 蛇馬 羊 猴 雞 狗 豬鼠 牛 虎 兔 龍 蛇馬 羊 猴 雞 狗 豬

6. Public Holidays 7 days in China 5 days in Taiwan 3 days in Hong Kong and Macau 2 days in Malaysia and Singapore

7. Purpose A time of reunion with family. Reunion dinner on New Year’s Eve ( 除夕 Chu shi ) This Saturday Red envelopes ( 紅包 “Hong bao” or “Ang Pao” ) containing money ( 壓歲錢 Ya shui chian )

8. Superstitions and Beliefs It’s unlucky to sweep the floor during the first five days of the Lunar New Year, because one might accidentally sweep one’s good luck and wealth out of the house. Bad language, arguing and talk of death are severely frowned upon. Bad language, arguing and talk of death are severely frowned upon. If a dish is broken,it’s vital to say “suei suei ping an”,means every year will be safe and secure. If a dish is broken,it’s vital to say “suei suei ping an”,means every year will be safe and secure.

9. The Story of Nien A ferocious beast called Nien Comes out from the sea every year to eat people The people drove Nien away with Red, Fire and Noises. Greeting: Congratulations 恭喜 (Gong-shi), 過年 (Guo-Nien ) 年

10. “Visiting” Gift Why???

11. Lion Dancers

12. Dragon Dancers

13. Night Market

14. “Red Pocket Money”

15. “New Year Poetry”

17. Big Dinner on New Year’s Eve Fish are considered lucky creatures. This is because the word “fish” in Chinese also sounds like the word meaning “surplus” or “something left over.” The owners believe it will help to bring in a surplus of money. People hope these practices will bring extra wealth in the coming year.

18. The Dragon’s Year’s first Pizza

19. Happy New Year 新年快樂