What is Chinese New Year?

Chinese New Year, also known as the Spring Festival, is a special celebration in China and many other countries worldwide. It’s a time when people come together to welcome the new year according to the traditional Chinese lunar calendar.

The Chinese lunar calendar, also known as the Chinese calendar or Yin calendar, is a traditional calendar system used in China and other East Asian countries. Unlike the Gregorian calendar that most of the world uses, which is based on the solar year, the Chinese lunar calendar is a lunisolar calendar, meaning it takes into account both the phases of the moon and the solar year.

The most exciting part about Chinese New Year for many people is that each year is associated with a different animal from the Chinese zodiac. There are twelve animals – the Rat, Ox, Tiger, Rabbit, Dragon, Snake, Horse, Goat, Monkey, Rooster, Dog, and Pig, and each year, the animal changes. People believe that the characteristics of that animal influence the year.

What Does a Dragon Symbolise?

In the Chinese lunar calendar and culture, the dragon is a powerful and positive symbol. It is one of the 12 animals of the Chinese zodiac, representing a unique year in the 12-year zodiac cycle. Here are some key attributes and symbolism associated with the dragon in the lunar calendar:

• Strength and Power: The dragon is often seen as a symbol of strength, power, and good luck. It is considered one of the most auspicious and revered animals in Chinese culture.
• Imperial Symbol: In ancient China, the dragon was associated with the emperor and imperial power. It was seen as a symbol of authority, and only the emperor could use dragon symbols on clothing, flags and other imperial emblems.
• Guardian Spirit: The dragon is believed to be a guardian spirit that protects against evil spirits and brings good fortune. It is often depicted as a benevolent creature, using its strength to safeguard people.
• Rain and Water: Dragons are also associated with rain and water in Chinese mythology. They were believed to have control over rainfall, which is crucial for agriculture. As a result, dragons were seen as bringers of life-giving water.
• Festive Celebrations: In Chinese New Year celebrations, when the dragon year comes around in the zodiac cycle, it is considered especially auspicious. Dragon dances, where people dress in dragon costumes and perform lively dances, are a common and vibrant part of the festivities during this time.
• Symbol of Prosperity: The dragon is associated with prosperity and good fortune. Its presence in the Chinese zodiac is thought to bring luck, wealth and success to individuals born in the Year of the Dragon.

While the dragon is highly esteemed in Chinese culture, the interpretation of the dragon’s symbolism varies across different Asian cultures. Overall, the dragon is a revered and positive symbol in Chinese folklore, representing qualities that are considered favourable and auspicious.

How to Make Paper Lanterns

Paper lanterns are commonly used during various traditional festivals and are an integral part of Chinese celebrations because they hold cultural and symbolic significance. The art of making paper lanterns is a longstanding tradition in Chinese culture and has been passed down through generations. It remains an essential element of various celebrations – including Chinese New Year.

Let’s take a look at how to make this particular one:

1. Colour the lantern and handle if desired. (FUN FACT: Many Chinese paper lanterns are red, symbolising positive energy, happiness and good fortune.)
2. Cut out the lantern along the solid lines.
3. Fold the lantern in half along the horizontal (longer) axis.
4. Cut along the dotted lines, making sure you stop at the end of each line. Do not cut all the way through!
5. Unfold your paper. With the coloured section on the outside, curl the lantern around and glue the ends together to create a circular lantern.
6. Cut out the paper strip on the lantern template. Use a stapler to attach this paper handle to the lantern.

Download Your Chinese New Year Craft and Celebrate

Press the download button to choose between the colour or black and white version of the paper lantern. Use your students’ lanterns to decorate your classroom for Chinese New Year.

Let the Celebration Continue

Looking for more ways to keep the Chinese New Year celebrations going? Here is a look at some of our Teach Starter Teacher Team’s favourite resources:

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Chinese Zodiac Animals Poster Set

Display these posters to teach your students about the Chinese Zodiac.

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Lunar New Year Mini-Workbook

Read, research and learn about the Lunar New Year with this activity book.

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Lunar New Year PowerPoint

Learn all about the Lunar New Year celebration with an instructional slide deck.