New Year's Eve

New Year's Eve is the busiest time of the year. Many different activities are going on at different parts of China to celebrate the New Year. On this day, Heaven, Earth and the Ancestors are honoured to usher in the New Year.

Reunion Dinner
One of the most important event on New Year's Eve is the Reunion Dinner. The whole family , even those working out of town, are expected to be home for this meal. In the event that any member of the family cannot make it, an extra set of cutlery will be placed at the empty seat in the spirit of the reunion.

There's various versions of the dinner. In some parts of China, 'Steam Boat' is served. This is a special dish whereby a pot of boiling soup is placed at the center of the table, and ingredients like meat and vegetables are cooked and eaten from the pot. In other parts, a feast with eight or ten dishes are served.

In any case, the spirit of reunion is universal. Also, the dishes on the table have special names with auspicious meaning. Even today, this tradition is one of the most well preserved aspect of New Year celebrations.

Night Guarding
Everyone will try to stay awake throughout the night till dawn. One night, two years. This a time when one think about the past year and anticipate the new year. Children who stay awake have the meaning of wishing for long lividity for the parents.

Red Packet
Red Packets are red envelope containing cash. On New Year's Eve, parents will give one to each child to place under the pillow. This is to wish the child a safe and happy year a head. It is also customary to give red packets to children (and single young adults) during New Year.