Chinese New Year: Cultural and Historical Overview
農曆新年：文化與歷史介紹
English:
Chinese New Year, also known as the Lunar New Year or Spring Festival, is one of the most important traditional festivals in Chinese culture. With a history of over 3,000 years, it originated during the Shang Dynasty to honor deities and ancestors and mark the transition from winter to spring.
The festival follows the lunar calendar, typically between January 21 and February 20. In 2026, Chinese New Year begins on February 17, welcoming the Year of the Horse, which represents vitality, perseverance, and forward momentum.
Chinese New Year reflects core cultural values such as family unity, respect for ancestors, and harmony with nature. Customs include family reunions, ancestral offerings, red decorations, and giving red envelopes for health, prosperity, and good fortune.
農曆新年，又稱春節，是中華文化中最重要的傳統節日之一，歷史超過三千年。起源於商朝，用來祭祀神明與祖先，並象徵寒冬結束、春天來臨。
農曆新年的日期依照農曆計算，通常落在 1 月 21 日至 2 月 20 日。2026 年農曆新年為 2 月 17 日，為馬年，象徵活力、毅力與積極向前的精神。
春節體現了家庭團聚、敬祖思源、人與自然和諧共生的文化價值。傳統習俗包括圍爐、祭祖、張貼紅色裝飾和發放紅包，寓意平安、健康與吉祥。
Upcoming New Year Events / 新年活動安排
| Date / 日期 | Time / 時間 | Location / 地點 |
|---|---|---|
| Feb 15, 2026 (Sun) | 4:00–7:00 PM | Taiwan’s Lunar New Year @ APCC |
| Feb 21, 2026 (Sat) | 2:00–6:00 PM | Bellevue Square |
| Feb 28, 2026 (Sat) | 11:00 AM–6:00 PM | Tacoma Dome |
| Mar 1, 2026 (Sun) | 1:00 PM–4:00 PM | Risdon Middle School |
薪傳文教工作坊 Legacy Multi Cultural & Education Service Center 