Shang Dynasty (1600–1046 BCE)
folk customs
UNESCO Intangible Heritage
active
The Spring Festival, also known as Chinese New Year, is the most important traditional festival in Chinese culture. Marking the beginning of the lunar new year, it is a time of family reunion, ancestor veneration, and elaborate celebrations including temple fairs, dragon and lion dances, and fireworks. In December 2024, it was inscribed on the UNESCO Representative List of the Intangible Cultural Heritage of Humanity.
Stories & Legends
The Legend of the Nian Monster
legendLong ago, a monster called Nian (meaning "year") would descend from the mountains every New Year's Eve to devour villagers and livestock. The people discovered Nian feared the color red, bright light, and loud noises. They began decorating their homes in red, lighting lanterns and firecrackers to drive Nian away. This tradition evolved into the Spring Festival customs observed today.
Spring Festival: A Civilization 4000 Years in the Making
historicalEvery year, a quarter of humanity pauses to celebrate the oldest continuous festival in human history.
Related Festivals
Relationship Constellation
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