Chinese New Year, also known as the Spring Festival, is one of the most important and anticipated festivities in Chinese culture. In Asia, Lunar New Year is also celebrated in various countries such as South Korea, Tibet, Vietnam, Singapore, Indonesia and Malaysia. After the year of the Water Rabbit, it’s time for the Wood Dragon in 2024. Let’s take a close look at how things are shaping up this new year.
Chinese New Year, which marks the start of the Chinese calendar year, is a time of renewal, family celebrations and rich traditions. Each year is associated with one of the twelve animals of the Chinese zodiac and based on the traditional characteristics attributed to the animal in question. The dragon will be the theme of the Chinese New Year which will open on Saturday February 10, 2024.
The dragon, being one of the most revered animals in Chinese culture, is often associated with luck and power. It benefits from the legacy of years of empire, bringing prosperity and power. The Year of the Dragon is generally considered a time for exceptional achievements, innovation and success. The dragon is associated with water, seasonal cycles, and agriculture. In China the dragon is seen as the calming element and the symbol of durability and stability. Overall, the Year of the Dragon is often considered a promising and dynamic time, with opportunities for personal and professional growth. People born under the sign of the Dragon are often described as bold, charismatic and ambitious. All people born in 1940, 1952, 1964, 1976, 1988, 2000, 2012 and therefore 2024 are therefore considered “Dragons” according to the Chinese zodiac.
A touching aspect of the Chinese New Year is the tradition of red envelopes (hongbao). Filled with money, these envelopes are offered to children and single people by elders, symbolizing the transmission of luck and prosperity. The festivities typically last a fortnight, culminating with the Lantern Festival, where colorful lanterns are lit to chase away darkness and symbolize hope.
Chinese New Year is much more than just a celebration of the passage of time. It is an opportunity to renew family ties, celebrate the richness of Chinese culture and welcome the arrival of a new year full of promise. This festival, imbued with age-old traditions, continues to shine throughout the world, inviting everyone to participate in this colorful and meaningful celebration. Jewelry and watch designers and luxury brands are seizing this excellent opportunity to attract Asian customers. Like every year, they present special creations or limited series with their favorite animal. This year the dragon is well represented in both jewelry and watches. I hope that my selection of beautiful pieces with the dragon will brighten up your year 2024. I wish you that the year of the Dragon brings everyone happiness, prosperity and success in all aspects of life.
