Lunar New Year (also known as Chinese New Year and Spring Festival) has officially begun. This year the festival started on Saturday February 10th, and will continue until the Lantern Festival on Saturday 24th. Lunar New Year begins anytime between January 21st and February 20th, when the new moon arrives. The celebration lasts until the following full moon. Lasting for 15 days, the time of Lunar New Year celebrations is an opportune occasion for weddings.
Lunar New Year History
Historians believe the Lunar New Year has been practiced for thousands of years, dating back to the 14th century B.C. The origins of the Lunar New Year are believed to have been derived from a legend, the monster Nian (meaning Year). Each new year Nian would attack villages, eating crops, destroying livestock, and terrorizing people.
According to the myth, an elderly man figured out Nian’s weaknesses; he was afraid of loud noises and the bright color red. These items were used to fight back against Nian, and now to celebrate Lunar New Year’s. The color red is frequently used in Lunar New Year celebrations, as are fireworks. During this time those celebrating enjoy celebrations, feasts, and festivals.
photo credit: Evan Rich Photography
Year of the Dragon
There are 12 Chinese zodiac signs: chicken, dog, dragon, horse, monkey, ox, pig, rabbit, rat, sheep, snake, and tiger. This year, 2024, is the year of the dragon. The dragon represents strength, leadership, and passion.
Wedding Customs
Having a wedding during Lunar New Years time is an exciting choice for parties and celebrations. Certain Chinese wedding customs are popular and regularly practiced during ceremonies.
The color red is frequently used in wedding ceremonies. Brides might wear a red dress, which has positive associations in Chinese culture, denoting honor, love, and success. Since the bride will most likely be wearing a red dress, guests should not dress in red. Dark colors should be avoided since they are typically associated with mourning and death. Red or gold wedding lanterns may be used as decoration. During the celebrations, the newlywed couple will release the lanterns into the sky. Firecrackers, believed to ward off evil spirits, might also be lit.
Auspicious Year of the Dragon Wedding Dates
In accordance with the Chinese zodiac, August 8th is the most auspicious day to get married (any year) as number 8 represents infinity in Asian culture. As August is the 8th month of the year, it is thought August 8th doubles the fortune upon the couple. For those not getting married in August, 8th day of any month is a lucky day to hold a wedding. On the other hand, number 4 represents bad luck and any wedding unions are to be avoided on the 4th day of any month including the month of April.
Year of the Dragon 2024 presents a number of propitious wedding dates: May, July, August, October and November are the favorable months to exchange vows, while 2, 8, 13, 14, 17, 20, 25 and 29. Therefore, a few wedding date ideas might be May 20, July 2, August 14, October 29, November 25.
photo credit: Evan Rich Photography
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To learn more about Lunar New Year’s, consider the following sources:
The Lunar New Year: Rituals and Legends
