Let's celebrate the Year of the Dragon

One of the most universal traditions, which has practically become a rite of passage, is the celebration of the New Year. The 31st of December, according to the Roman calendar, is an irresistible occasion to gather and party with family and friends. However, this tradition takes on many different forms around the world, one of which is the highly anticipated Chinese New Year, 农历新年 (nónglì xinnián). This is one of the most important annual festivals celebrated by Chinese communities around the world, often with the support of their host countries.

The Chinese New Year, or Spring Festival, 春节 (chunjié), is also know under a variety of local names such as Setsubun in Japan or Tet Nguyen Dan in Vietnam. This year, on January 23rd, we will enter in the year of the Dragon, 龙 (lóng), symbol of the emperor. The festival always begins on the first day of the first month in the Chinese lunar calendar and lasts for fifteen days. This calendar is built on a twelve-year cycle, each year based on an animal corresponding to the Chinese zodiac, 生肖 (Sheng xiao).
This annual public holiday is a major event in many countries throughout Asia. During this period many cultural institutions dedicate some time to the celebration; a prime example being the Lincoln Center in New York which is welcoming the renowned pianist Lang Lang for a special concert.

The French capital also takes part in organizing festivities. Every year, Paris welcomes several cultural events, gathering and parades. The city’s most famous and impressive parade, organized by the 13th arrondissement city hall, will take place on January 29th. Don’t miss the colorful settings and costumes, the traditional music and the festive atmosphere that spread throughout the city at this occasion.
To get up-to-date on meetings, debates, concerts, movie projections etc, check out the program on Chine Informations and take advantage of this unique opportunity to learn more about Chinese culture and traditions.

Soria Dworjack

Lang Lang performs Bartok's second Piano Concerto with the New York Philharmonic, Avery Fischer Hall, on January 18,19, 21, 2012

Chinese New Year with Lang Lang, Avery Fischer Hall, January 24, 2012