Festival

Festival Map

London Chinatown

Gerrard St,
London W1D 5PT,
United Kingdom.

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The Chinese festival closely connected with the Chinese zodiac is undoubtedly the Spring Festival, more commonly known as Chinese New Year. This grand celebration is deeply rooted in Chinese tradition and is intricately linked to the twelve-animal zodiac cycle.

The Chinese zodiac, or Shengxiao, is a unique system that assigns an animal sign to each year in a twelve-year cycle. These animals, in order, are the Rat, Ox, Tiger, Rabbit, Dragon, Snake, Horse, Goat (or Sheep), Monkey, Rooster, Dog, and Pig. Each animal is associated with certain characteristics and attributes, forming the basis of astrological and cultural beliefs.

Chinese New Year marks the beginning of this zodiacal cycle, and the festival is steeped in symbolism and rituals that align with the characteristics of the animal of the year. The festival typically falls between January 21 and February 20, depending on the lunar calendar, and lasts for 15 days, culminating in the Lantern Festival.

The festival’s connection to the Chinese zodiac is vividly displayed through a series of traditions and customs. To start, each year is associated with one of the twelve zodiac animals, and the characteristics attributed to that animal are believed to influence the events and fortunes of the year. For example, the Year of the Rat is associated with resourcefulness and adaptability, while the Year of the Dragon is linked to power and success.

One of the most iconic aspects of Chinese New Year is the grand parade featuring dragon and lion dances. The dragon, a symbol of strength and good fortune, is a central figure in the celebrations, while lions are believed to ward off evil spirits. The performances are not only captivating spectacles but also carry deep cultural and zodiacal significance.

As families gather for the annual reunion dinner on the eve of Chinese New Year, traditional dishes take on added symbolism. Dumplings, shaped like gold ingots, symbolize wealth and prosperity, while fish represents abundance and surplus. The choice of dishes often reflects the aspirations and hopes for the upcoming year, guided by the zodiac’s influence.

Red envelopes, or “hongbao,” are another integral part of the festival, symbolizing good luck and prosperity. Elders give these red packets containing money to younger family members and friends, imparting blessings and positive energy for the coming year. The selection of the amount often follows auspicious numbers linked to the zodiac.

The Chinese zodiac also influences the practice of “sui bian” or wearing red clothing during the festival. Red is considered a lucky color and is believed to ward off evil spirits. People born in a particular zodiac year, known as their zodiac year, are encouraged to wear red as a form of protection against potential challenges and misfortunes.

Throughout the festival, the zodiac plays a prominent role in various activities, from temple visits and traditional performances to the display of zodiac-themed decorations. People often engage in activities associated with their zodiac sign to enhance good fortune and ward off negativity.

In summary, the Chinese festival most intimately connected with the Chinese zodiac is Chinese New Year. This annual celebration is a captivating fusion of cultural traditions, astrological beliefs, and communal festivities, all interwoven with the symbolism and influence of the twelve-animal zodiac cycle. As each new year commences, the Chinese zodiac continues to guide and shape the auspicious celebrations, creating a rich tapestry of customs and beliefs that resonate throughout the festival period.