Lunar New Year 2024: The history of Lunar New Year celebrations in China dates back more than 4,000 years. It is one of the oldest traditions in history and is passed down through generations. This celebration is related to stories, agriculture, and how cultures change over time. Also known as Lunar New Year, this special day brings families together to honor their ancestors and welcome the arrival of spring. Here’s everything you need to know about the history of this celebration, which begins with its Chinese roots.
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Early origins:
Before New Year’s celebrations were established, ancient Chinese communities gathered to celebrate the end of the autumn harvest season. Some believe that the origins of this tradition date back to early harvest festivals held around October of the lunar calendar, marking the climax of the agricultural cycle.
Sengoku period (475-221 BC):
The text describes the annual “Big Nuo” exorcism ritual performed to expel evil spirits. In preparation for the Chinese New Year, it has become customary to thoroughly clean the house.
Evolution and tradition:
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Han Dynasty (206 BC – 220 AD):
According to historical records, the earliest documents regarding New Year celebrations can be traced back to the Han Dynasty. During this period, the festival incorporated customs such as honoring ancestors, making offerings to the gods, and using firecrackers to thwart the mythical creature Nian. In the book Simin Yueling written by Cui Shi, an agriculturist of the Later Han Dynasty, this day is described as “The first day of the first month is called Zhengil.I took my wife and children and worshiped my ancestors. , remembering my father, his children, his wife, “It’s a lively event where grandchildren and great-grandchildren serve pepper wine to their parents, toast to them, and pray for their parents’ health.”
Tang Dynasty (618-907 AD):
A book from the Northern and Southern Dynasties period called “Jing Chu Shui History” depicts a family gathering in the ruins of a blown-up bamboo pole, as the celebration begins anew, resembling half a piece of paper unfolded. Over time, these festivals became increasingly popular and incorporated traditions such as lion dances, intricate paper cutting, and ornate decorations.
Qing Dynasty (1644-1912):
Temple fairs and lantern festivals were also incorporated into the festival. According to the book Qing Jia Lu, “The elders give the children coins tied with a red string. The money is called Ya Shui Qian.”
Modern transformation:
China switched to the Gregorian calendar in 1912, but continues to use the lunar calendar for traditional festivals. At the time, acting President Sun Yat-sen of the Republic of China government decided to abolish China’s lunar-solar calendar.
20th century: During the Cultural Revolution, this celebration was officially renamed “Spring Festival.”