Chinese New Year, also known as the Spring Festival, is one of the most important traditional holidays in Taiwan.
Chinese New Year marks the beginning of the lunar new year and is characterized by vibrant festivities lasting about 15 days. Families come together for reunion dinners, exchange red envelopes containing money for good luck, also known as lucky money, and enjoy traditional dishes like dumplings and fish. Colorful lion and dragon dances are performed in the streets, accompanied by the rhythmic beats of drums and cymbals, to ward off evil spirits and bring good fortune. Women often wear elegant Qipaos (旗袍), traditional Chinese dresses, adorned with intricate designs and vibrant colors. Beyond Taiwan, Chinese New Year is celebrated in various parts of the world with large-scale events, parades, and cultural performances. China, Japan, and South Korea, for example, celebrate Chinese New Year too. Western cities with significant Chinese communities, such as Hong Kong, Singapore, and Chinatowns in major cities like New York and London, come alive with festive decorations, street markets, and fireworks displays, showcasing the rich cultural heritage of the holiday.
