New Year Celebrations
New Year is one of the most important festivals in many countries around the world. It is a time when people come together with their families and friends to celebrate the beginning of a new year. In this essay, I will share how New Year is celebrated in China and the United States.
In China, New Year is also known as the Spring Festival. It is based on the lunar calendar and usually falls in late January or early February. The festival lasts for fifteen days, starting from the first day of the lunar calendar. To prepare for the celebrations, people clean their houses thoroughly to get rid of any bad luck and make room for new fortune. Red decorations are put up to symbolize good luck and prosperity.
On New Year's Eve, families come together for a reunion dinner. This is the most important meal of the year, and everyone makes an effort to be present. A typical reunion dinner consists of various dishes, including fish, dumplings, and other symbolic foods. After dinner, families gather to watch the annual CCTV New Year's Gala, a TV show that showcases traditional performances and talent shows. At midnight, fireworks light up the sky, creating a festive atmosphere.
During the fifteen days of the Spring Festival, people visit their relatives and friends to exchange greetings and good wishes. Red envelopes with money inside, known as "hongbao," are given to children and unmarried **s during these visits. Firecrackers are set off to chase away evil spirits and bring good luck. Lion and dragon dances are also commonly performed in streets and in front of houses, adding to the festive spirit.
In the United States, New Year is celebrated on January 1st. Many people attend New Year's Eve parties or go to public events to welcome the new year. A popular tradition is to make New Year's resolutions, which are personal goals or commitments for self-improvement in the coming year. Common resolutions include exercising more, eating healthier, and learning something new.
One of the most famous events in the United States on New Year's Day is the Rose Parade in Pasadena, California. This parade features elaborate floats made of flowers, marching bands, and equestrian units. Millions of people line the parade route, and millions more watch it on television. Another significant event is the dropping of the New Year's Eve ball in Times Square, New York City. As the clock strikes midnight, the ball descends, and fireworks light up the sky.
In conclusion, New Year is a joyous occasion celebrated in different ways around the world. Whether it's the Chinese Spring Festival with its family reunions and symbolic traditions, or the American parties and festivities, the spirit of hope and renewal is universal. Regardless of the cultural differences, the idea of starting anew and cherishing the time spent with loved ones is something that connects us all.