Chinese new year

This week it was the Chinese New Year. It lasted for 15 days, people celebrating hand out red envelopes that represent love, they have money in them. To celebrate they have lots of food every day. There was a big nasty dragon called Nian and it kept scaring the people away from their houses. Until a wise man told people Nian was afraid of fire, the colour red, and loud noises. So when Nian came they tried those three things and Nian ran away.

Why, each year in the Chinese culture is represented by a different animal?

There are 12  Chinese Zodiac Animals. A long time ago the Chinese Jade Emperor held a race. This year is the year of the Dog, Do you know how it was like 4000 years ago?

A long time ago the Chinese Jade Emperor held a great Race that contested who will Win and have their own year. The 12 animals was a, Tiger, Rat, Rabbit, Monkey, Dog, Pig, Snake, Dragon, Rooster, Ox, Horse and a goat. When they started the race the Ox lead first place and came across a river, But couldn’t swim. The Rat came behind him and couldn’t swim also, So the rat got on the ox and he kindly helped the rat across the river. The rat jumped of the Ox and won. The rat represents quick, kind and smart.

There are 12 Chinese Zodiac signs, in the following order: Rat, Ox, Tiger, Rabbit, Dragon, Snake, Horse, Goat, Monkey, Rooster, Dog, and Pig. Each sign is named after an animal, and each animal has its own unique characteristics. This year is the year of the dog. This year the dog represents honesty, loyalty and Kind. If your animal takes turn on the zodiac cycle legend has it that your year will be full of surprises.

Another legend has it that when your animal comes around you will have back.  According to ancient Chinese superstition, in your birth sign year.

He will offend the God of Age, and will have bad luck during that year. The best way to avoid bad luck during this year is by wearing something red given by an elder (relative), such as socks, a neck cord, underwear, a waistband, a bracelet, or an anklet.

It is a festival celebrated with and family and for  ¼ of the world’s population. Chinese New Year is a special celebration and is celebrated all over the world.