Year of the Dragon 2012 is Now!

Chinese New Year 2012 has come at last!  In Chinese communities all across America the celebrations are about to begin.  In China itself this is indeed a wonderful time of the year.  In the past, when China was largely an agricultural based society, these celebrations could last up to a whole month!  However, today they usually only last about two weeks.  Many people who are not Chinese may wonder what exactly the meaning of the celebrations are?

Chinese New Year is an important holiday for Chinese families.  It celebrates the new year according to the lunar calendar.  So it is one of the most significant holidays for Chinese people all across the world today.  The holiday itself is celebrated with big family gatherings, gift giving, the eating of symbolic foods, and the display of festive, traditional decorations from China.  All of this is focused on bringing good luck for the new year.  It also anticipates the coming of spring in just a short time.

Chinese New Year is a happy time indeed.  2012 is the Year of the Dragon, which is a very powerful and old symbol in China.  May your Chinese New Year be a wonderful time!

Best regards from the East,

Harlan Urwiler

For more information, feel free to visit my website at:  http://www.myorientalgallery.com/.