Origins & History
Which country did Lunar New Year originally come from?
China
How many animals are in the Chinese zodiac cycle?
12 animals
What are the red envelopes containing money called?
Hongbao (or Lai See).
Which food is shaped like ancient Chinese gold ingots and symbolises wealth?
Dumplings
Name one country other than China that celebrates Lunar New Year.
Examples: Vietnam, South Korea, Singapore, Malaysia.
Which ancient legend tells of a monster that was scared away by loud noises and the colour red?
The legend of Nian
Which animal is first in the Chinese zodiac?
Why do families clean their homes before Lunar New Year?
To sweep away bad luck and make space for good fortune.
What does eating fish during Lunar New Year symbolise?
Abundance and prosperity.
What is Lunar New Year called in Vietnam?
Tết
How long does the Lunar New Year festival traditionally last?
15 days
How often does a person’s zodiac animal repeat?
Every 12 years
Why are firecrackers set off during celebrations?
To scare away evil spirits and bring good luck.
Why are long noodles eaten during celebrations?
They symbolise long life.
What is Lunar New Year called in South Korea?
Seollal
What is the name of the final celebration held on the 15th day of Lunar New Year?
The lantern festival
Name three animals from the Chinese zodiac.
Any three of the following: Rat, Ox, Tiger, Rabbit, Dragon, Snake, Horse, Goat, Monkey, Rooster, Dog, Pig.
Why is it considered unlucky to sweep the house on New Year’s Day?
Because it is believed you might sweep away good luck.
What sweet rice-based dessert is commonly eaten and symbolises family togetherness?
Nian Gao (sticky rice cake).
Why does the date of Lunar New Year change each year?
Because it follows the lunar calendar, based on the cycles of the moon.
Why is red such an important colour during Lunar New Year celebrations?
It symbolises good luck and prosperity and is believed to scare away evil spirits like Nian.
According to legend, how were the zodiac animals chosen?
They were chosen based on the order they finished a race organised by the Jade Emperor.
Why is family reunion such an important part of Lunar New Year celebrations?
It symbolises unity, respect for ancestors, and the importance of family bonds.
Why must noodles not be cut during Lunar New Year meals?
Cutting them symbolises shortening one’s life.
Between which two dates does Lunar New Year usually fall?
Between 21 January and 20 February.