In December, as festive lights illuminated the streets of Nanjing, I found myself reflecting on the vibrant evolution of China's cultural landscape. Traveling from Beijing to this beloved city, where I have numerous friends—artists, painters, singers, dancers, and journalists—I was immersed in the lively atmosphere of Christmas Eve. Young people filled the streets, their excitement palpable as they visited international and Chinese restaurants and bars, all set against a backdrop of joyous celebration.
Decades ago, when I first arrived in China in my twenties, invited by a Chinese publishing house, Christmas was not a familiar concept to most people here. Locals were always polite and eager to ensure we foreign colleagues felt welcome, often inviting us to their homes for dinner or lunch. Back then, we knew little about the Spring Festival, much like the Chinese knew little about Christmas.
Today, learning about the Spring Festival is as simple as opening a computer. This annual event, celebrated in China and Chinese communities worldwide, marks the new year on the Chinese calendar and symbolizes people's desires for a fresh start. Equal in significance to Christmas in Western countries, the Spring Festival is China's most important holiday.
The festival typically begins in late January or early February and lasts until mid-February. In 2025, the Spring Festival holiday falls from January 28 to February 4. This period will be characterized by lively gatherings and close family reunions, highlighting the festival's core values of unity and renewal.
The origins of the Spring Festival date back approximately 3,500 years to the early Shang Dynasty. It honors traditions of respecting ancestors and deities. Two key aspects define the festival: bidding farewell to the old year and welcoming the new, and the importance of family reunion.
As we embrace the Year of the Wood Snake, it's a time for reflection and anticipation. The vibrant celebrations not only strengthen familial bonds but also offer a glimpse into China's rich cultural heritage. Whether you're a longtime resident like myself or a curious traveler, the Spring Festival is an invitation to experience the heart of Chinese culture.
Reference(s):
cgtn.com
