Lunar New Year is a special celebration that follows the lunar calendar, which is based on the moon. It is an important tradition in many East Asian countries, especially China, Vietnam and Korea. For thousands of years, families have used this calendar to celebrate the arrival of spring. It is one of the oldest and most popular festivals in the world. One of the most interesting parts of Lunar New Year is the cycle of 12 animals. Each year is represented by a different animal. According to a legend, the animals were chosen after a great race across a river. The first twelve animals to arrive became part of the calendar, and the order has stayed the same ever since. Before the celebration, families clean their homes to remove bad luck. They decorate with red because it symbolizes luck and happiness. During the festival, families enjoy a big meal with special foods like fish, dumplings and sticky rice cakes, which represent good fortune and success. Children receive red envelopes with money. There are also parades with dragon and lion dances to bring good luck for the new year.
Vocabulary:
• lunar (adj): related to the moon
• celebration (noun): a special event for a happy occasion
• tradition (noun): a custom followed for many years
• festival (noun): a special day or period of celebration
• cycle (noun): a series of events that repeat in the same order
• legend (noun): an old traditional story
• decorate (verb): to make something look beautiful
• symbolize (verb): to represent something
• fortune (noun): good luck
• parade (noun): a public celebration in the street
• envelope (noun): a paper cover for a letter or money
• dumplings (noun): small pieces of dough filled with meat or vegetables