Calendar 2024 Malaysia Chinese New Year
As the year 2023 comes to an end, many Malaysians are already gearing up to welcome the new year with open arms. But for those who celebrate Chinese New Year, the festivities don’t quite end there. In 2024, the Chinese New Year celebrations in Malaysia will fall on February 10th, marking the beginning of the Year of the Dragon.
Events and Festivals
The Chinese New Year celebrations in Malaysia are a vibrant affair, with a host of events and festivals taking place across the country. From lion dances to street parades, here are some of the most popular events to look out for in 2024:
- Chap Goh Meh – also known as the “Fifteenth Night”, this marks the end of the Chinese New Year celebrations and is celebrated with lantern displays, fireworks, and a traditional “tossing of the mandarin oranges” ceremony.
- Thaipusam – a Hindu festival celebrated by the Tamil community in Malaysia, Thaipusam is marked by a colorful procession of devotees who carry kavadis (ornate structures) on their shoulders as a form of penance.
- Chinese New Year Open House – a tradition started by former Prime Minister Tun Dr. Mahathir Mohamad, this event sees people of all races and religions coming together to celebrate Chinese New Year with food, music, and cultural performances.
- Penang Hot Air Balloon Fiesta – while not directly related to Chinese New Year, this annual event takes place in early February and offers visitors a chance to see the beautiful island of Penang from a unique vantage point.
Celebrations and Traditions
Chinese New Year in Malaysia is a time for family reunions, feasting, and giving thanks for the year that has passed. Here are some of the most important traditions and customs associated with the festival:
- Spring Cleaning – before the new year begins, families will often do a thorough cleaning of their homes to symbolize a fresh start.
- Red Decorations – the color red is believed to bring good luck and fortune, and is therefore a prominent feature in Chinese New Year decorations.
- Reunion Dinner – on the eve of Chinese New Year, families will gather for a special dinner that typically includes dishes like fish (which symbolizes abundance) and dumplings (which represent wealth).
- Ang Pow – small red envelopes filled with money are given as gifts during Chinese New Year, particularly to children and unmarried adults.
- Lion Dance – a traditional performance that involves dancers dressed in lion costumes, the lion dance is believed to ward off evil spirits and bring good luck.
Question and Answer
Q: What does the Year of the Dragon signify?
A: In Chinese astrology, the dragon is considered to be a powerful and auspicious symbol. People born in the Year of the Dragon are believed to be confident, ambitious, and charismatic.
Q: How long do the Chinese New Year celebrations last?
A: The festivities typically last for 15 days, culminating in the Chap Goh Meh celebrations on the fifteenth night of the new year.
FAQs
Q: Is Chinese New Year a public holiday in Malaysia?
A: Yes, Chinese New Year is a public holiday in Malaysia. It is typically observed for two days, although some businesses may close for longer periods.
Q: What kinds of food are typically served during Chinese New Year?
A: Some of the most popular dishes include yee sang (a raw fish salad), nian gao (a sticky rice cake), and tang yuan (sweet glutinous rice balls).
As you can see, Chinese New Year in Malaysia is a colorful and joyous occasion that offers something for everyone. Whether you’re a local or a visitor, be sure to join in the festivities and experience the magic of this special time for yourself!