On the Day Before

The Eve of Chinese New Year, also known as the Lunar New Year's Eve, is celebrated on the last night of the lunar calendar year, marking the end of the year. It is one of the most important traditional festivals for the Han Chinese people. The term "Chuxi" translates to "getting rid of the old and welcoming the new," symbolizing a fresh start and the renewal of all things. According to historical records in the "Lüshi Chunqiu," an ancient Chinese text, the custom of Chuxi originated from the practice of driving away evil spirits by beating drums on the day before the New Year. Customs on Chinese New Year's Eve are deeply rooted in tradition and have been passed down for generations. Families stay up all night on this occasion, a practice known as "shousui" or "keeping vigil," to welcome the arrival of the new year. One of the most significant customs on Chinese New Year's Eve is the reunion dinner, known as "nián yè fàn." Families gather to enjoy a sumptuous feast, featuring traditional dishes that carry symbolic meanings. For example, eating fish symbolizes abundance and prosperity, while dumplings represent wealth and good fortune. In northern China, it is…