New Year's Day, also known as the Gregorian New Year, is a festival celebrated by most countries around the world. In China, it is referred to as "Yangli New Year." On January 1st each year, people across the globe welcome the arrival of the new year in various ways. New Year's Day is a public holiday in China, during which people enjoy time off work to reunite with their families or join in diverse celebratory activities.
Celebrations for New Year's Day in China blend traditional and modern elements. Urban areas are adorned with colorful lights and decorations, creating a festive ambiance. Parks and squares may host public events such as concerts and fireworks displays. Additionally, with the rise of social media, sending online greetings has become a popular trend, where friends and relatives exchange New Year wishes via text messages and WeChat red envelopes.
Historically, China has always had the tradition of celebrating the new year. The Spring Festival, calculated according to the Chinese lunar calendar, stands as the most important traditional holiday in China, rich with customs and festivities that have been passed down for thousands of years. Today, China also follows the Gregorian calendar system, designating January 1st as New Year's Day, marking the beginning of the new year. Thus, the Spring Festival and New Year's Day have become two distinct holidays, each with its unique ways of celebration.
(By Yang Jiming/ Qi Qian)
