Among Southeast and East Asian countries, the lunar new year is one of the most important celebrations. While in most parts of the world, the new year is celebrated based on the Georgian Calendar, the lunar new year is something different that is celebrated based on the lunar calendar. In Southeast and East Asian countries like Vietnam, China, and Korea, the new year is celebrated based on the lunar calendar. This time, however, the lunar new year is all set to be celebrated on January 22, 2023. Generally speaking, there are multiple differences between the celebration of the new year based on the Georgian calendar and the lunar one.
Unlike the Georgian new year, the lunar new year is celebrated for many days. While the new year’s celebration in most parts of the world is just a single day (which is considered to be a national holiday,) the lunar new year’s celebration goes for many days. Nevertheless, it is also important to note here that these different countries that celebrate the lunar new year call it different names.
“Chūnjié:” The Lunar New Year Celebration in China
In China, for example, the festive of the lunar new year is called “Chūnjié” Which translates into “the spring festival.” notice that the Chinese people celebrate their new year at the arrival of the spring season. Unlike the Georgian new year which is celebrated at the apex of winter, Chinese people enjoy their new year with the arrival of the spring season.
During these national holidays, which go on for 4 to 5 days, Chines prepare sweets and distribute them among their relatives. Loved ones get together at this mega event. Likewise, worshipping their deities also becomes proactive throughout the lunar new year celebration. Likewise, grand parties are also organized throughout the festival.
“Tết: The Lunar New Year Celebration in Vietnam
On the other, the lunar new year celebration in Vietnam is called “Tết,” which roughly translates into “the new year celebration.” Just like in other South East and East Asian countries, the lunar new year is celebrated with fervor in Vietnam.
However, the celebration of the lunar new year is no different in its essence than the Chūnjié celebration of China. Sweet dishes and milk are distributed in the community. The whole country goes on a federal holiday during the celebration of the lunar new year in Vietnam. And the same is true for Korean countries as well, who call it “Seollal.”
Nonethless, the lunar new year is celebrated when the netizens witness the first new moon. Generally speaking, the first new moon appears in the latter half of January. Thus, the lunar new year 2023 is all set to be celebrated on January 22, 2023. Overall, the concept of the lunar new year celebration is the same in all Asian countries.
