- What do you know about the zodiac, lion and dragon dances, and the “tray of togetherness”?
Difficulty: Challenger (Level 2)
It is that time of year again! Shops in Hong Kong are playing Lunar New Year music, and there are festive decorations everywhere.
Like any other centuries-old celebration, Lunar New Year comes with its own set of traditions. Here are three facts about how this festival is celebrated in Hong Kong.
Start of a new zodiac year
Each year is assigned to one of the 12 zodiac animals. They are also linked to the five main elements in Chinese culture. 2024 is the Year of the Wood Dragon, which comes once every 60 years. Some believe that people born in these years are creative.
Lions, dragons and dancing, oh my!
In Chinese culture, the lion and the dragon are considered lucky animals. The lion symbolises strength, stability and superiority, while the dragon represents power, boldness and excellence.
The lion and dragon dances are performed at the start of the lunar year. They are ways of chasing away evil spirits and welcoming success.
Tray of togetherness
During the Lunar New Year, a beautiful container called a chuen hup or “tray of togetherness” is usually offered to guests. The traditional candy box holds a delicious selection of treats such as sweets, seeds and dried fruits. The snacks symbolise good luck for the year ahead (see graphic).
