The Year of the Pig on the Chinese calendar begins today,

Tuesday, February 5th.

Chinese New Year is celebrated by more than 20% of the world. It’s the most important holiday in China and to Chinese people all over.  Sometimes, it is called the Lunar New Year and others call it Spring Festival.

The following are facts about Chinese New Year:

• The Spring Festival was originally a ceremonial day to pray to gods for a good planting and harvest season.
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• Firecrackers are supposed to scare off monsters and bad luck… So people stay up on Chinese New Year’s Eve and set off firecrackers at midnight.
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• The Spring Festival is technically 15 days.  Traditionally, you have to spend time with your family and can only go out after the 5th day. It’s a national holiday. The large majority of stores are closed too.
• Showering isn’t allowed New Year’s Day. Sweeping and throwing out garbage isn’t allowed before the 5th. This is to make sure you don’t wash away the good luck!
• Children receive lucky money in red envelopes.
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• Chinese New Year ends with the Lantern Festival.
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• Chinese New Year is celebrated all around the world.  Did you know that one out of every 5 people in the world is Chinese?

If you have a Chinatown nearby, make sure you go check out the parades, lion dances, lantern statues, fireworks and amazing food!

So…how is this related to Clay Aiken?  Well….maybe he will put on a coat, go out and enjoy some great food and have a relaxing time!  AND…a few pictures are alway fun!

So…Mr. Aiken…We would love it if you periscoped as you celebrate The Year of The Pig. 

If you do, the world will shine a bit brighter with lots of smiles!

And most of all –  have fun!

“gong hei fat choy.”

Translation: “Best wishes and Congratulations. Have a prosperous and good year.”

If you want to read more about Chinese New Year, visit the following site: 21 Things You Didn’t Know