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When is the Chinese New Year 2024?(Year of the Dragon)

Updated: Feb 7


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Prepare for a journey into the heart of tradition into the wonders of Chinese New Year, also known as Spring Festival (春节 – chūnjié). In 2024, the revelry of this auspicious occasion, marked as the Year of the Dragon, will commence on February 10.

Chinese New Year is a spectacle of tradition, celebration, and cultural richness. In this comprehensive post, we explore the essence of the upcoming Chinese New Year in 2024. Join us as we delve into the details of

 

What is the Chinese New Year animal for 2024?


The Chinese Calendar, or 农历 (nónglì), is the basis of the 12-year cycle of the Chinese zodiac.


The 12 animals of the Chinese zodiac are called 生肖 (shēngxiào) in Chinese. These animals in their order of appearance are Rat, Ox, Tiger, Rabbit, Dragon, Snake, Horse, Goat (also translated as Ram and Sheep), Monkey, Rooster, Dog, and Pig, but each year also includes one of the 5 elements, metal, water, wood, fire, and earth.


Known as one of the most fortuitous and influential animals in the Chinese zodiac calendar, this year 2024 the dragon awaits the upcoming Year based on Chinese Astrology. February, 10th, 2024, will mark the arrival of the Dragon, a symbol of luck, power, and strength in the Chinese zodiac calendar. Discover this mighty creature and why this year is particularly significant for those seeking prosperity and fortune.


Which years are years of the Dragon?


cartoon collage dragon for Chinese New Year 2024
year of the Dragon 2024

According to the Chinese zodiac, the Year of the Dragon occurs every 12 year every 12 years. If you were born in the years  1928, 1940, 1952, 1964, 1976, 1988, 2000, and 2012 and now 2024, you were born under the zodiac sign of The dragon (龙 long).

 

What Does The Dragon Represents In Chinese Zodiac For 2024?


In the enchanting realm of Chinese zodiac symbolism, the mighty Dragon emerges as a beacon of power, success, honor, and boundless luck. It's no wonder that the hearts of many Chinese parents yearn for the arrival of their little ones during Dragon years! Anticipation builds as we set our sights on the imminent dawn of the Wood Dragon's reign—a year poised to unfold as a tapestry of creativity and auspicious progress for all fortunate souls. May the ethereal energy of the Wood Dragon guide us on a journey filled with unexpected twists, vibrant moments, and a sprinkle of magical destiny.

 

How long is the Chinese New Year holiday in 2024?  


In China, the Chinese New Year celebration extends over two weeks, kicking off with New Year’s Eve and culminating in the Lantern Festival, known as 元宵节 (yuánxiāo jié), on the 15th day of the year.

Officially is recognized as a 7-day public holiday in China, but it can go up to two weeks, and more for workers in factories, this period sees the closure of businesses and schools. It provides an opportunity for people to embark on journeys back to their hometowns and villages, reuniting with family.

The festivities involve many activities, including eating, drinking, cooking, visiting family and friends, and reminiscing about the events of the past year. During these visits, the focus is on the exchange of good wishes, red envelopes, and, of course, savoring delicious traditional foods together.


What is the next Chinese New Year animal in 2025?


Chinese New Year doesn't stick to a fixed date, because they follow the Chinese lunisolar calendar, and every year varies from the end of January to the first of February.

Check this table for a sneak peek at Chinese New Year dates over the next 12 years. Dive deeper into the Chinese Zodiac in our Zodiac signs post.

Remember, the celebration kicks off on New Year’s Eve. Families unite for a grand New Year’s Eve dinner, or nián yèfàn (年夜饭).

Year

Chinese New Year Date

2023 (Water-Rabbit)

January 22, 2023

2024 (Wood Dragon)

February 10, 2024

2025 (Wood Snake)

January 29, 2025

2026 (Fire Horse)

February 17, 2026

2027 (Fire Goat)

February 6, 2027

2028 (Earth Monkey)

January 26, 2028

2029 (Earth Rooster)

February 13, 2029

2030 (Metal Dog)

February 3, 2030

2031 (Metal Pig)

January 22, 2031

2032 (Water Rat)

February 10, 2032

2033 (Water Ox)

January 30, 2033

2034 (Wood Tiger)

February 18, 2034

 

What is the difference between Chinese New Year and Lunar New Year?


The festival that is frequently referred to as 'Chinese New Year' is not only celebrated in China. The term 'Lunar New Year' is increasingly used to refer to festivals in other countries that take place at the same time and with many of the same traditions as in China.


what to eat on Chinese New Year?


Chinese New Year isn't just a feast; it's a symphony of symbolism, each dish a note of good fortune.


Indulge in lucky foods during the Chinese New Year celebration, especially on the New Year's Eve dinner. These dishes aren't just tasty; they're believed to usher in good luck for the upcoming year.


The significance of these traditional Chinese New Year foods lies in their names or appearances. It's not just about what's on the plate but how it's prepared, served, and savored.


Dumplings, fish, spring rolls, and niangao are staples, each carrying its unique symbolism.


  • Fish (鱼 Yú — an Increase in Prosperity

  • Chinese Dumplings(饺子 Jiǎoz) — Wealth

  • Whole Chicken Chicken is a homophone for ji (吉)- meaning 'good luck' and 'prosperity'). 

  • Chinese New Year Cake((年糕 Niángāo ) — a Higher Income or Position

  • Spring Rolls  (春卷 Chūnjuǎn) — Wealth

  • Sweet Rice Balls 团团圆圆 (Tuántuán yuányuán) — Family Union

  • Longevity Noodles (长寿面 Chángshòu Miàn ) — Happiness and Longevity

  • Lion's Head Meatballs (狮子头, shīzitóu) which are pork meatballs— 'Family Unity'

  • Steamed Pork Belly with Taro — 'Prosperity'

  • Shrimp — 'Happiness'Vegetables — 'Spring', 'Wealth'

  • Fruit — Fullness and Wealth 


what do you need to remember on Chinese New Year?


📅 Save the Date: February 10, 2024!

Get ready for an unforgettable evening on Friday, February 9, 2024, as Chinese culture gears up for a massive New Year’s Eve dinner! 🍽️ Symbolic foods take center stage, conveying wishes for health, prosperity, and family togetherness. 🌟


🔴 Red is the New Lucky!

In this vibrant celebration, red becomes more than a color; it's a symbol of luck. Join the festivities as everyone dons red and exchanges auspicious gifts like oranges, flowers, candies, and unique treats such as sweet rice cakes and taro cake. 🍊💐


🧧 Red Envelopes, A Tradition of Generosity!

Watch as married adults share the joy with red envelopes (hóngbāo) filled with lucky money, bringing smiles to the faces of children and elders alike. 🧑‍🎓💰


🎆 Lights, Lanterns, Action!

The night comes alive with dazzling fireworks, enchanting parades, sumptuous banquets, and the warm glow of brig


In conclusion, as we wrap up the festivities of the Chinese New Year, it's a time to cherish the moments spent with our loved ones, embrace our cultural heritage, and look forward to the opportunities the Year of the Dragon brings. Whether it's gathering with family or connecting with friends and neighbors, the spirit of goodwill and good wishes is part of this big celebration. From Protech Solutions Family, we wish you a year filled with luck, happiness, and prosperity. May luck, happiness, and prosperity accompany each step we take, and may the Year of the Dragon be a year filled with joy, success, and abundant blessings for everyone. Happy Chinese New Year!

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