We have already started work after holidays, let me briefly introduce our New Year

This year is the Year of the Dragon in China，which refers to one of the Chinese zodiac signs. In the Chinese zodiac, there are 12 animal signs, and each animal is associated with a year in a 12-year cycle. The Year of the Dragon is one of these cycles.

The Dragon is the only mythical animal in the Chinese zodiac, and it is considered a symbol of power, authority, and good fortune. People born in the Year of the Dragon are believed to be ambitious, charismatic, and natural leaders.

The Chinese zodiac operates on a 12-year cycle, with each year associated with a different animal sign. Other animal signs include the Rat, Ox, Tiger, Rabbit, Snake, Horse, Goat, Monkey, Rooster, Dog, and Pig. The cycle repeats, so the Year of the Dragon comes around once every 12 years.

It is celebrated by Chinese communities worldwide, as well as in many other East Asian countries. Here are some common traditions, customs, and celebrations associated with Chinese New Year:

1. Reunion Dinner ( Nián Yè Fàn): On the eve of Chinese New Year, families gather for a grand reunion dinner. This meal is symbolic of family unity and is considered the most important meal of the year.

2. Cleaning and Decoration: Before the New Year, homes are thoroughly cleaned to sweep away bad luck and make way for good fortune. Red decorations, such as lanterns, couplets, and posters with Chinese characters for good luck, are also hung.

3. Red Packets (Hóng Bāo): Red packets, or hongbao, containing money are given to children and unmarried individuals by married couples or elders. The red color symbolizes good luck and wards off evil spirits.

4. Lion and Dragon Dances: Traditional lion and dragon dances are performed during Chinese New Year parades and celebrations. The loud music, firecrackers, and energetic movements are believed to scare away evil spirits and bring good luck.

5. Fireworks and Firecrackers: Fireworks and firecrackers are set off on the eve of the New Year to chase away evil spirits. The noise is believed to bring good luck and happiness.

6. Temple Visits: Many people visit temples during the New Year to pray for good fortune and make offerings to deities.

7. New Year's Markets: Traditional markets spring up with stalls selling festive goods, decorations, and special New Year foods. People shop for new clothes and supplies for the celebrations.

8. Festive Foods: Various special foods are prepared and consumed during the New Year, each with symbolic meanings. For example, dumplings represent wealth, fish symbolizes abundance, and niangao (New Year cake) symbolizes growth, progress, and the promise of a better year.

9. Wearing Red: Red is considered a lucky color, so people often wear new red clothing during the New Year to attract good fortune and happiness.

10. Visiting Relatives and Friends: Throughout the holiday period, people visit the homes of relatives and friends to exchange well-wishes for the coming year.

Chinese New Year lasts for 15 days, with the Lantern Festival marking the end of the celebrations. The specific customs and traditions may vary across regions and among different communities, but the overall theme is one of joy, family, and the welcoming of a prosperous new year.