What Not To Do On Chinese New Year

So, You're Spending Chinese New Year Abroad? Let's Not Make a Faux Pas!

Hey there, curious traveler! You're in for a treat, Chinese New Year is just around the corner. It's like the ultimate party, a whole nation celebrating together. But hold on a sec, you might be wondering, "What's the deal with all those red envelopes? And why are people cleaning their houses like there's no tomorrow?" Let's dive in, shall we?

First Things First: The Red Envelopes

Alright, so you've probably seen those red packets, right? They're called hongbao. Imagine them as little treasure chests filled with cash. Neat, huh? But here's the thing, you only give them to kids and unmarried adults. So, if you're planning to hand one out to your boss, you might want to rethink that. It's like giving a kid a whoopee cushion, it's just not done.

And when you receive one, don't be all "Oh, here's a fiver, thanks!" No, no, no. You're supposed to say something like, "Thank you so much, I'll use this wisely!" or "This is too much, thank you!" You know, something that shows you appreciate it.

Cleanliness is Next to Godliness (Especially During CNY)

Now, you might have noticed people scrubbing their houses from top to bottom. It's not just because they're OCD (although, let's be real, some of them might be). It's a tradition called spring cleaning. The idea is to sweep away any bad luck and make way for good fortune. So, if you're planning to help out, great! But remember, don't sweep the dirt towards the door. It's like sweeping away good luck. Not cool.

Oh, and another thing, don't lend or borrow money during the first five days of the new year. It's considered bad luck. It's like starting the year with a debt, and who wants that?

Food, Glorious Food!

Chinese New Year is all about the food. You've got your dumplings, your spring rolls, your fish... it's a feast! But here's a heads up, don't turn down a drink or a dish. It's like saying "No, thanks, I'd rather not have good fortune." Not the best way to start the year, right?

And speaking of food, don't forget to have some jiaozi (dumplings) at midnight. It's like a tradition within a tradition. The idea is that the more dumplings you eat, the more money you'll make. So, go on, have another one. It's for your wallet!

Dress to Impress (Or Not)

You might be thinking, "I should wear something nice, right?" Well, yes and no. Red is the color of the season, so feel free to rock it. But avoid black and white. They're funeral colors, and trust me, you don't want to be a party pooper.

Chinese New Year Taboos and Superstitions: 18 Things You Should Not Do

Also, don't give someone a clock as a gift. It's a big no-no. The word for clock, shōu, sounds like the word for "to attend a funeral." So, yeah, not the best gift idea.

Let's Get Social

Now, you're probably wondering, "What's with all the visiting?" Chinese New Year is all about family and friends. It's like a non-stop party hopping from one house to another. But remember, don't show up empty-handed. Bring some treats, some fruit, something nice. It's like a housewarming party, but for the whole year.

And when you're there, don't forget to say gōngxǐ fā cái. It means "wishing you prosperity." It's like saying "Happy New Year" but with a whole lot more meaning.

Let the Fireworks Fly!

You can't miss the fireworks, right? They're everywhere! But here's a tip, don't light them yourself. It's like playing with fire, and not in a cool, dragon-slaying kind of way. Leave it to the pros, yeah?

Oh, and one more thing, don't cut your hair during the first lunar month. It's like cutting off your good luck. No one wants that, right?

So there you have it, folks! A quick guide to surviving Chinese New Year. It's all about respect, tradition, and having a good time. So, go on, embrace it. It's going to be a blast!