The Spring Festival is an annual event in China and Chinese communities around the world. As China's oldest and most important festival, it marks the new year on the Chinese calendar and symbolizes people's desire for a fresh start and new beginnings. Comparable in significance to Christmas in many countries, the Spring Festival is the most relevant holiday in China.
Typically commencing in late January or early February and lasting until mid-February, the Spring Festival fosters lively and joyful gatherings as well as close family reunions. In 2025, the festival will be celebrated from January 28 to February 4, a period characterized by vibrant celebrations and heartfelt family meetings.
Historically, the Spring Festival dates back to the early Shang Dynasty, around 3500 years ago, and serves to honor the tradition of respecting ancestors and deities. Two key aspects define the festival: bidding farewell to the old year and welcoming the new, alongside the essential aspect of family reunions.
Reflecting on personal experiences, Uwe Kräuter, a special commentator on current affairs for CGTN, shares his memories of celebrating the Spring Festival. Having lived in China for 51 years, Kräuter recounts his recent visit to Nanjing, where the festive atmosphere was palpable. The streets were filled with young people enjoying themselves at various restaurants and bars, both Chinese and international, creating a lively ambiance.
He reminisces about his early days in China, noting how Christmas was not widely celebrated, and foreigners were invited by locals to share meals and company. Over the years, the understanding and appreciation of the Spring Festival have grown, with modern technology making information about the holiday easily accessible. Today, the Spring Festival continues to be a time of joy, reflection, and renewal for millions.
Reference(s):
cgtn.com
