The Chinese Lunar New Year is a traditional celebration by many Chinese worldwide.
People often wonder why the date for Chinese New Year changes each year. The Chinese calendar was first introduced by Emperor Huangdi (黄帝) , the Yellow Emperor (not to be confused with Emperor Qin Shi Huang)
It is a combination of the solar and lunar calendar, and based on a numerous complex astronomical calculations. The months begin with a new moon, and the Chinese New Year falls on the second new moon after the winter solstice.
This year, 2012, Chinese New Years falls on January 23rd. It’s also the 4710th Chinese New Year, and a time to welcome the Year of the Dragon!
The “Chinese Zodiac” is represented by a cycle of 12 animals. These 12 animals are the Rat, Ox, Tiger, Rabbit, Dragon, Snake, Horse, Goat, Monkey, Rooster, Dog and the Boar.
2012 is the Year of the Dragon. The Dragon is the 5th sign of the Chinese Zodiac and is a creature of myth and legend. (It is also the only creature that is unreal among the 12)
In ancient China, the celestial Dragon represents an emperor and power. Today, it is regarded as an auspicious symbol which stands for power, success, good luck and happiness.
According to Chinese Five Element Astrology Calendar, 2012 is the Year of Water Dragon. The color of Water in Five Elements system (Metal, Wood, Water, Fire and Earth) is related to Black. Therefore we can say 2012 is a Black Dragon, Water Dragon or Black Water Dragon year.
Here’s wishing everybody A Happy and Prosperous Chinese New Year, with good health, wealth and many good things to come!!
恭喜发财! 万事如意!!
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