Chinese New Year, also known as Lunar New Year or Spring Festival, marks the start of the year in many Asian cultures.<br />The date falls on the second new moon after the winter solstice on December 21 and is typically celebrated between January 21 and February 20.<br />This year, the Year of the Ox, kicks off on February 12.<br />Here’s a look at some of the festival's oldest traditions.<br />Red is the main color of the festival: The color is viewed as auspicious and can be seen in many decorations.<br />Family reunion dinners are held on New Year’s Eve: The menu usually consists of fish for prosperity, dumplings for wealth and glutinous rice cakes for successful careers.<br />Firecrackers and fireworks are a must: It’s a tradition to light firecrackers and fireworks in the first minute of the new year.<br />Families exchange gifts: The most common gift is the red envelope, which contains money and signifies luck.
