With over 20% of the world’s population celebrating the Spring Festival, Chinese New Year is one of the biggest festivities the world has to offer. So we wanted to break it down for you with a brief look into the history of CNY, what the zodiac animal will bring to 2019 and the events that are on offer to welcome in the New Lunar Year.

Chinese New Year, also known as the Spring Festival, is the most celebrated holiday in the Chinese Calendar. Unlike western holidays, Chinese New Year changes each year, in accordance with the Lunar Calendar. This year is falls on February 5th 2019. It's a tradition to gather families together, pass children  ‘lucky’ money in red envelopes (Lai See), watch firework displays and decorate everything in red.

What ‘The Pig’ has in store for 2019…

This year’s zodiac animal is The Pig - the 12^th of the zodiac animals. The pig is associated with strong symbols of wealth and fortune. According to Chinese astrology, 2019 is going to be a great year to make money and an even better year to invest. The pig is said to attract success in all the spheres of life and will bring joy, friendship and love for all zodiac signs. 

 

We've shortlisted the best things to do this Chinese New Year

Night Parade – HONG KONG

When: 8:00pm – 9:45pm February 5th 2019

Where: Tsim Sha Tsui

Always held on the night of Chinese New Year, the international night parade is one of the most expected annual events that takes place in Hong Kong. Transforming the streets of Tsim Sha Tsui, the night comes alive with illuminating floats and street performers, attracting thousands of spectators. There’s no better way to welcome the New Year than with an unforgettable trip here.

Fireworks Display -  HONG KONG

When: 8:00pm-8:23pm February 6^th 2019

Where: Victoria Harbour

Classed as one of the best firework displays in the world, Hong Kong will hold its longest and most innovative firework display over Victoria Harbour on the second eve of the New Year. Accompanied with synchronised music, you can choose to watch the show via rooftop bars, harbour tours or harbour view restaurants. Either way, it’s impossible to miss! We recommend Aqua for uninterrupted views.

Penang CNY celebrations – Malaysia

When: New Years Day Eve

Where: George Town Heritage District

It is said that the Chinese community in Malaysia and the state of Penang throw the most boisterous Chinese New Year party; and they’re not wrong. Families reunite to gamble, eat and celebrate together, before going to the street party and open house that is held around the George Town Heritage District. You’re a tourist? Not to worry -  Penangites mix with foreign visitors and bring them along to the celebrations.

Ho Chi Minh City – Vietnam

When – 00:00 New Year’s Day

Where: Cholon

Chinese cultural influences still remain strong in some parts of Vietnam, meaning the Lunar New Year is still widely celebrated. Ho Chi Minh City is said to host one of the best celebrations in Vietnam, with fireworks being set off at the stroke of midnight in 6 different areas across the city. This will continue into the next few days, joined by an array of food stalls, book festivals and Vietnamese flower markets.