Chinese New Year
Also known as the Spring Festival, is a significant traditional festival celebrated by Chinese communities around the world, including in London’s Chinatown. The exact dates of Chinese New Year vary each year as it follows the lunar calendar, but it typically falls between January 21 and February 20.
The Zodiac
The Chinese zodiac is a system that assigns an animal and its reputed attributes to each year in a repeating 12-year cycle. The zodiac is associated with Chinese New Year, and each year is also linked to one of the five elements (wood, fire, earth, metal, and water). The 12 animals of the Chinese zodiac, in order, are:
- Rat (鼠): 2020, 2008, 1996, 1984, 1972, 1960, 1948, 1936, 1924
- Ox (牛): 2021, 2009, 1997, 1985, 1973, 1961, 1949, 1937, 1925
- Tiger (虎): 2010, 1998, 1986, 1974, 1962, 1950, 1938, 1926
- Rabbit (兔): 2011, 1999, 1987, 1975, 1963, 1951, 1939, 1927
- Dragon (龙): 2012, 2000, 1988, 1976, 1964, 1952, 1940, 1928
- Snake (蛇): 2013, 2001, 1989, 1977, 1965, 1953, 1941, 1929
- Horse (马): 2014, 2002, 1990, 1978, 1966, 1954, 1942, 1930
- Goat (羊): 2015, 2003, 1991, 1979, 1967, 1955, 1943, 1931
- Monkey (猴): 2016, 2004, 1992, 1980, 1968, 1956, 1944, 1932
- Rooster (鸡): 2017, 2005, 1993, 1981, 1969, 1957, 1945, 1933
- Dog (狗): 2018, 2006, 1994, 1982, 1970, 1958, 1946, 1934
- Pig (猪): 2019, 2007, 1995, 1983, 1971, 1959, 1947, 1935
Each animal is believed to influence the personality traits of individuals born in that particular year, and people often refer to their Chinese zodiac sign as a way of understanding certain characteristics and tendencies. Additionally, the element associated with the year provides further insights into the individual’s characteristics, as each element is associated with specific traits and energies.
Soho
Chinatown in London, located in the Soho area, is a vibrant and lively place, especially during the Chinese New Year celebrations. Here are some key aspects of Chinese New Year celebrations in London’s
Chinese Street Decorations:
In the weeks leading up to Chinese New Year, Chinatown is adorned with colorful decorations, including traditional lanterns, banners, and symbolic ornaments. The streets are transformed into a festive atmosphere to welcome the New Year.
Parade:
One of the highlights of the celebrations is the New Year parade. It typically features traditional lion and dragon dances, martial arts performances, and vibrant floats. The parade winds its way through the streets of Chinatown, attracting locals and tourists alike.
Lion and Dragon Dances:
Traditional lion and dragon dances are an integral part of Chinese New Year celebrations. These performances are believed to bring good luck and drive away evil spirits. The energetic and rhythmic dances are accompanied by the loud beats of drums and cymbals.
Fireworks and Firecrackers:
Fireworks and firecrackers are commonly used during New Year to ward off evil spirits and bring good luck. In London, fireworks displays may be organized to mark the occasion.
Food and Festivities:
Chinatown is known for its diverse and delicious cuisine. During The New Year, restaurants and food stalls offer special festive menus, featuring traditional dishes believed to bring prosperity and good fortune. It’s also common for families and friends to gather for reunion dinners.
Traditional Performances:
Various cultural performances, including traditional music, dance, and martial arts demonstrations, may take place in and around Chinatown. These performances showcase the rich cultural heritage of the Chinese community.
Market Stalls:
Street markets in Chinatown and surrounding areas may set up stalls selling traditional New Year decorations, gifts, and festive items. This creates a bustling and lively atmosphere as people shop for souvenirs and festive treats.
Temple Visits:
Some individuals and families may choose to visit local Chinese temples to offer prayers and seek blessings for the upcoming year. Temples may hold special ceremonies and events during this time.
Chinese New Year is a time for joy, family reunions, and the hope for a prosperous and auspicious year ahead. The celebrations in Chinatown, London, reflect the vibrant cultural diversity of the Chinese community and attract people from all backgrounds to join in the festivities.
If you or anybody you know are thinking of buying, selling or renting in London then please book a complimentary appointment with Sam Akbay and start your property journey
