Origins
This dynasty, over 3,000 years ago, was when Chinese New Year first began.
Shang Dynasty
This is the most important meal of the year, held on New Year's Eve with family.
Family reunion dinner
How many animals are in the Chinese zodiac cycle?
12
These food symbolize wealth because they look like ancient coins.
Dumplings
Why do people clean their houses before the new year?
Sweep away bad luck
The legend of this creature explains why people use red decorations and firecrackers.
Nian
People set these off to welcome prosperity and ward off evil spirits.
Fireworks
What determines which zodiac animal represents each year?
Lunar calendar
This sticky rice cake represents growth and progress in the new year.
Nian Gao
What color is used most for decorations because it represents good luck?
Red
According to legend, what color scared away the beast Nian?
Red
What do people give inside red envelopes (hongbao)?
Money
If you were born 12 years ago, what will happen this year in the zodiac cycle?
Zodiac year returning
These fruits symbolize luck and are commonly exchanged during the New Year.
Tangerines and oranges
What do couplets and paper cuttings often have written on them?
Lucky messages and wishes for prosperity
What is the name of the festival that Chinese New Year is also called?
Spring Festival
What type of performances do people watch to bring good luck and drive away bad spirits?
Lion and dragon dances
What does each zodiac animal symbolize?
Different personality traits and predictions for the year ahead
Why do people eat fish for Chinese New Year?
For abundance and prosperity.
Name two values that Chinese New Year celebrations represent.
Family unity, gratitude, hope, honoring ancestors
What is the time period in which Chinese New Year usually falls?
January 21 and February 20
What do families do after midnight on Chinese New Year to bring good luck for the year ahead?
Setting off fireworks and firecrackers
What happens every 60 years in the Chinese zodiac cycle?
A full cycle of both the 12 animals and the five elements
What is the special phrase people say when eating fish to bring prosperity?
'Nian Nian You Yu' (年年有余), meaning 'May you have abundance every year'
Why do people avoid saying unlucky words or breaking things during Chinese New Year?
To prevent bad luck and misfortune for the year ahead