Chinese New Year is filled with traditions—fireworks, lanterns, and delightful family meals. Beyond these activities lies a rich collection of stories, and myths that shape the holiday. These tales give Chinese New Year its cultural meaning and make it the celebration we know today.
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What stories are important to the Chinese New Year?
Chinese folklore plays a big role this holiday, and many of the traditions come from ancient stories.
Here are some of the most well-known stories that you will hear around the Chinese New Year:
- The legend of Nian
Nian, a fearsome creature that attacked villages every New Year’s Eve, causing fear and destruction. For years, people couldn’t stop it until an old man showed up. When Nian attacked, the old man set off firecrackers which scared the creature away. From then on, villagers used firecrackers and red decorations to keep Nian away. This tradition continues till date with firecrackers and red lanterns.
- The kitchen god, Zao Jun
Another intriguing story features the kitchen god Zao Jun, responsible for each household’s well-being. He is believed to live in the stove or hearth of a house. Every year, Zao Jun travels to the heavens to report to the Jade Emperor about the family’s behavior, which is believed to affect their luck for the year ahead. To get a good report, families offer sticky sweets like nian gao (sweet, sticky rice cake), to honor Zao Jun.
- The zodiac race
The Chinese zodiac includes twelve animals, each with its own story. It is said that the animals raced to decide their order in the zodiac. The clever Rat rode on the Ox’s back, then jumped off just before the finish line to win the race. This story teaches us that cleverness and resourcefulness can help you succeed in life. Learn more about the Chinese zodiac signs.
It is also believed that the zodiac animals influence one’s personality traits. For example, people born in the Year of the Rat are clever and resourceful. Understanding the zodiac’s significance guides many traditions during the Chinese New Year.
- The legend of Demon Sui
The Legend of Demon Sui started the tradition of gifting red envelopes to children. Demon Sui would come on Chinese New Year or Lunar New Year’s Eve to scare children, causing them to get sick. One night, a child’s parent gave him eight copper coins wrapped in red paper to protect him. As the child slept, a radiant light came from the red paper which scared the demon away. Since then, families give hongbao (red envelopes filled with money) to children to keep them safe and healthy.
As the Chinese New Year approaches, staying connected with family is important. These stories are a great way to bond with your friends and family. This Chinese New Year, send money with Western Union to your family and friends around the world, let them know you’re thinking of them.
You can visit an agent location nearby or simply send money online using our app or website. Fill your Chinese New Year with special memories.
