TRADITIONAL CULTURE

Tsampa Fights and Surprises: The Evolving Fortunes of Tibetan New Year

Two young Tibetans recall how the festivities of Losar, the traditional New Year on the Plateau, have changed and stayed the same since their childhood

FILM

Four Films to Kick Off the New Year

With a sizable box office and a diverse lineup, the Chinese film industry is off to a good start in the Year of the Rabbit

TRADITIONAL CULTURE

Revel in Minor Pageantry With Cantonese ‘Floating Kids’ Parade

Children take center stage in Guangdong’s “floating colors” ceremony, which celebrates the God of Wealth and other festivities during the Lunar New Year

BOOKS

How are China’s Biggest Holidays Celebrated in Classic Novels?

The Lunar New Year and Lantern Festival are key scenes of drama in China’s Four Classic Novels, providing clues of how people celebrated holidays in ancient China

MODERN HISTORY

How the TV Stole Spring Festival

First airing live in 1983, CCTV’s Spring Festival Gala didn’t just change TV—it changed the way China celebrates the Lunar New Year

FOOD

What’s for Dinner: Diverse New Year ‘Reunion Meals’ Around China

Many Chinese New Year traditions revolve around a family dinner, but what’s on the table varies greatly from region to region

STREET TALK

Greet the Lunar New Year with a Gen Z Twist

How netizens are giving modern makeovers to traditional New Year greetings

SOCIETY

Buying Words and Flowers: Scenes of Preparation for the Lunar New Year

These scenes of pre-New Year celebrations in southern China will put you in the mood for the holiday

TRADITIONAL CULTURE

Nuts for the New Year

Why Chinese companies give out non-cash gifts for the holidays

TRADITIONAL CULTURE

Sexist Seating

Are women really banned from the banquet table during Chinese New Year?