-
Some people believe that Chinese New Year originated in the Shang Dynasty (1600–1046 BC), when people held sacrificial ceremonies in honor of gods and ancestors at the beginning or the end of each year.
-
The Zhou Dynasty (1046–256 BC) is when the term "Nian" (Year) first appeared. It had become customary to worship nature and make sacrifices to ancestors or gods.
-
During the Wei and Jin dynasties (220–420 AD). Common people first established the traditions of a family gathering to clean their home, eating dinner, and staying up late on New Year's Eve.
-
During the Han Dynasty (202 BC–220 AD), the festival was set for the first day of the first month in the Chinese lunar calendar. Burning bamboo to create a loud cracking sound was one of the popular celebration activities.
-
The prosperity of the Tang, Song, and Qing dynasties played a key role in shaping the Spring Festival into a vibrant celebration we know today. Traditional customs like setting off firecrackers, visiting loved ones, and enjoying dumplings became staples of the holiday. Over time, the festival evolved from a religious observance to a lively social event, featuring dragon and lion dances and lantern shows, making it a festive occasion focused on entertainment and community.
-
In 1912, the Chinese government replaced the lunar calendar and abolished Chinese New Year, officially adopting the Gregorian calendar and designating January 1 as the New Year. -
After 1949, Chinese New Year was rebranded as the Spring Festival and designated a nationwide public holiday.