In our school the Chinese community is quite large. These days , our Chinese students are celebrating the beginning of the new year. Chinese New Year is probably the most important festivity for Chinese people all over the world. The exact date on the Western calendar changes from year to year. We know it takes place between 1 January and 19 February. This year , New Year is celebrated tomorrow, 23 January.
Every year has got an animal´s name. 2012 is the year of the Dragon. Chinese people believe that a person born in a particular year has some of the characteristics of that animal.
Celebrations in Chinese families last for about a fortnight. Usually , celebrations begin with the cleaning of the house. The Chinese get rid of useless things , to throw away the misfortunes of the past year. Then on New Year´sEve they all enjoy a family meal. Fish is always part of the dinner because it represents abundance. Also , Chinese children wear new clothes, usually of red colour, which brings good luck. Parents give children "Lai see" ( lucky money) in red envelopes.
In places with big Chinese communities , there are also wonderful parades, where the lion dancers are always present. They dance to the rhythm of drums and noisy firecrackers which frighten away evil spirits.
But the dragon is the most important lucky figure in these parades. There are also acrobats and musicians , all dressed up in costumes with bright colours.
