Last Updated: 20/02/2008

Chinese New Year is based on the lunar and solar calendars, the date varies from late January to mid-February and is the biggest festival of the year for Chinese communities.  Each year in the Chinese calendar is represented by one of the twelve animals of the Chinese zodiac: the Dragon, Snake, Horse, Ram, Monkey, Rooster, Dog (2006), Boar/Pig (2007), Rat (2008), Ox, Tiger and Rabbit.

Legend has it that in ancient times, Buddha asked all the animals to meet him on Chinese New Year. Twelve came, and Buddha named a year after each one. He announced that the people born in each animal's year would have some of that animal's personality. For example, those born in dog years tend to be loyal, kind, and generous. They will work to right wrongs and are able to keep secrets.

2008 is the "Year of the Rat."  In China, the Rat is respected and considered a courageous, enterprising person. It is deemed an honour to be born in the Year of the Rat and it is considered a privilege to be associated with a Rat. Rats know exactly where to find solutions and can take care of themselves and others without problems. They use their instinctive sense of observation to help others in times of need and are among the most fit of all the animal signs to survive most any situation.

At Chinese New Year celebrations people wear red clothes, decorate with poems on red paper, and give children "lucky money" in red envelopes. Red symbolizes fire, which according to legend can drive away bad luck. The fireworks that shower the festivities are rooted in a similar ancient custom. Long ago, people in China lit bamboo stalks, believing that the crackling flames would frighten evil spirits.

Photos of the Events

A typical School Lunch for Chinese New Year

CHINESE NEW YEAR 2008

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