Chinese Traditional Festivals: Little New Year (Xiao Nian）
Preface: In China, there is a special day called Xiao Nian （小年，the Little New Year）. It serves as a prelude…
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Long ago, in China, there was a fierce monster called “Nian.” It appeared at the end of each year, devouring livestock and even harming people. People found that “Nian” was afraid of red, firelight, and loud noises. So, every year at this time, every household would hang red lanterns, paste red couplets, and set off firecrackers to drive away “Nian.” From then on, this day became a celebration of victory and a time to bid farewell to the old and usher in the new, known as “celebrating the New Year.” Also called Spring Festival.
Preface: In China, there is a special day called Xiao Nian （小年，the Little New Year）. It serves as a prelude…