By Star Chang, posted Jan 23, 2012 at 2:36 PM, 673 views,

The Origin of Chinese Lunar New Year in Animation

China is having their Lunar new year celebration right now. It is the most important of the traditional Chinese holidays. The festival begins on the first day of the first month in the traditional Chinese calendar and ends on the 15th day. The red color theme and fire crackers are always tied with Chinese New Year. According to legend, the traditions of fireworks and the color red are to scare away evil spirits in ancient China. Click in to watch the animation video.

According to Chinese mythology, a monster known as ‘Nian’ lives under the sea. Once each spring, around Chinese new year times, it comes out of hiding to attack people, and prefers children. Until one day a monk arrived and sorted the monster out. He pointed out the weaknesses of the Nian are purported to be a sensitivity to loud noises, and a fear of the colour red. The Nian has not appeared again. The deafening explosions of firecrackers are known for scaring away the Nian. It also signifies a joyful time of year and has become an integral aspect of Chinese New Year celebrations.

Source: NMA, Wikipedia (Link1)(Link2)