Lunar New Year

Lunar New Year, also known as Chinese New Year or Spring Festival, is one of the most significant and vibrant holidays celebrated in Hong Kong. It marks the beginning of the lunar calendar and typically falls between late January and mid-February. The festivities last for about 15 days, culminating in the Lantern Festival. In Hong Kong, Lunar New Year is a time for family reunions, feasting, and honoring traditions. Key customs include cleaning homes to sweep away bad luck, decorating with red lanterns and couplets for good fortune, and giving red envelopes (lai see) containing money as blessings. Families gather for lavish reunion dinners on New Year's Eve, often featuring symbolic dishes like fish (for abundance) and dumplings (for wealth). The city comes alive with colorful parades, lion and dragon dances, and fireworks displays, particularly in areas like Tsim Sha Tsui and Victoria Harbour. The iconic flower markets, where people buy auspicious plants like orchids and kumquat trees, are also a highlight. Temples, such as Wong Tai Sin, are bustling with worshippers seeking blessings for the year ahead. Lunar New Year in Hong Kong is a blend of ancient traditions and modern celebrations, offering a unique cultural experience for locals and visitors alike.