Main content

Unleash your inner pig! 5 fun facts about Chinese New Year 2019

4 February 2019

Chinese New Year 2019 officially begins on 5 February. These schoolchildren shared their fun facts about how Chinese people celebrate New Year.

Here’s what they shared:-

  • 2019 is the year of the pig.
  • Food has added meaning: long noodles represent a long life; egg rolls look like bars of gold, so bring prosperity.
  • You’re not supposed to take a shower at Chinese New Year in case it washes away good luck.
  • Chinese New Year is not a religious celebration, so anyone can celebrate it.
  • Children are given money in red envelopes as it’s a lucky colour.

Part of the wider Spring Festival, two weeks of celebrations will mark the start of Year of the Pig.

2019: Year of the Pig

Chinese New Year: Year of the Pig

It's Chinese New Year. What are the personality traits of people born in Year of the Pig?

The 12 animal signs used in the Chinese zodiac ascribe personality traits to people born during that year.

Here are some examples, as shared with 大象传媒 The L.A.B by the schoolchildren above:-

  • Monkey – funny and sharp
  • Dragon – ambitious and powerful
  • Tiger – brave, confident, make good leaders
  • Rat – kind, clever and funny
  • Snake – relaxed and very smart

The 12 Chinese zodiac signs

Year last used Animal
2019 Pig
2018 Dog
2017 Rooster
2016 Monkey
2015 Goat
2014 Horse
2013 Snake
2012 Dragon
2011 Rabbit
2010 Tiger
2009 Ox
2008 Rat

Epic, large-scale lantern displays that celebrated Chinese New Year in 2018. (From 2018)

Latest features from 大象传媒 Scotland