With February coming to a close, let's shine light back on a particular day of the month, when lunar lanterns shine their brightest. Lunar New Years is a day of celebration amongst those who utilize the lunar calendar. Despite how many celebrate this grand day, not many knows its origins so let's shine some light on that.
The origins of Lunar New Years date back to the 14th century, when the Shang dynasty was in power. There are many legends that are associated with Lunar New Years. One legend is that of the Nian, a beast from the mountains that terrorized villages at the end of every year. Little by little, the villagers discovered that the Nian was afraid of loud noises, bright lights, and the color red. With this information, on new years eve, the villagers had a model of the Nian, firecrackers, and loud instruments such as the drums and the gong, ready to chase away the Nian. When the Nian arrived near the village, the villagers utilized all these tools and the Nian was off back into the mountains.
We'll have to thank those Nian for these red packets
Lunar New Year Experiences
Anthony Mai, a student of Morrow High School, and Ms. Nguyen, a teacher at Morrow High School, celebrate Lunar New Years and considering the pandemic, the celebrations of Lunar New Years have not been affected. There are plenty of things that stand out in the Lunar New Year. What stood out to Ms. Nguyen this year were (quoted)
“The dragon dances and setting firecrackers at the beginning of the ceremonies are great traditions to set the happiness and excitement of the Lunar New Year celebration. Then, dressing in Vietnamese long dresses or new/nice clothes to wish each other good luck; receiving and giving red lucky envelopes with money are very memorable and exciting, which are also my favorite Lunar New Year Tradition.”
With traditions of the Lunar New Years standing out, there are also many customs that people would consider their favorite, a fellow mustang Anthony states “The red packet traditions is my favorite tradition. The red packet is a symbol of good luck , it's gifted by someone or to someone with money in it.”
With all this info, and a word from individuals that celebrate it, we hope you enjoyed your Lunar New Years!