It is the most important and colorful Chinese festival celebrated by the majority of the local population, where shops, offices, factories close for this traditional holiday. During ten days there are a huge number of events celebrating the New Year. The long dragon and lions dance on the streets, crowds visit the temples, lanterns, flowers and entertainment comes alive in the most important squares of the city. It is also a tradition when people visit and greet each other with two joined hands closed, saying “Kung Hei Fat Choi” and offering “Lai Si” (red pockets) containing money, which is a way to wish good luck and prosperity throughout the year to friends and relatives.
The 15th day of the First Moon is the Lanterns Festival, being equally Valentine’s Days in the Chinese tradition. At night, the celebrations continue with colorful lanterns placed around. Small balls of glutinous rice are prepared as dessert, for homophonic reasons and symbolize the “ribbon of friendship”, “family reunion” or “good luck” for the Chinese.
When: February 12–14, 2021
Where: All over the city
How much: Free admission
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