Chinese New Year (Lunar New Year)
Photo by Red Morley Hewitt
The Chinese New Year otherwise known as the Lunar New Year falls on the new moon each year between the 21st January and 20 February.
This is a time of celebration for families to come together to feast, give gifts and watch fireworks over a 15 day long holiday. Celebrations last from the new moon to the full moon.
The Chinese calendar follows a 12 year cycle with each year related to one of twelve creatures. Here are the dates and associated creatures for the next six years.
2018, Friday 16 February – Dog
2019, Tuesday 5 February – Pig
2020, Saturday 25 January – Rat
2021, Friday 12 February – Ox
2022, Tuesday 1 February – Tiger
2023, Sunday 22 January 2023 – Rabbit
About Chinese New Year:
The story of the Chinese Zodiac – The Great Race
Activities:
Whats your zodiac sign?
Intentionality
To introduce children to the cultural celebrations of the Chinese (Lunar) New Year which may be different from our own.
To introduce the Chinese Zodiac through a story and explain how it relates to the new year celebrations.
To use singing activities to explore the Chinese Zodiac.
Outcomes
2.2 Children respond to diversity with respect.
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