7 Things To Know About 1968 Lunar New Year

The Lunar New Year, also known as the Chinese New Year or the Spring Festival, is one of the most significant traditional holidays in many East Asian countries, including China, Vietnam, Korea, and others. The year 1968 was a remarkable year for many reasons, and its Lunar New Year was no exception. Here are 7 things to know about the 1968 Lunar New Year:

The Lunar New Year's Animal: The Monkey

The Lunar New Year is based on a 12-year cycle, with each year represented by an animal from the Chinese zodiac. The year 1968 was the year of the Monkey, which is the ninth animal in the cycle. People born in the year of the Monkey are known for their cleverness, agility, and mischievous personalities.

Characteristics of People Born in the Year of the Monkey

According to Chinese astrology, people born in the year of the Monkey are known for their intelligence, wit, and adaptability. They are often charming and charismatic, but can also be cunning and manipulative. Monkeys are known for their love of adventure and their willingness to take risks, which can sometimes get them into trouble.

Celebrations and Traditions

The Lunar New Year is a time for celebration and tradition in many East Asian countries. During the 1968 Lunar New Year, people would have come together with family and friends to share meals, exchange gifts, and participate in various cultural activities. Some of the traditional celebrations and activities include:

Lion dances and dragon dances to ward off evil spirits and bring good luck Fireworks and firecrackers to symbolize the driving away of evil spirits Traditional foods such as dumplings, fish, and niangao (sticky rice cake) The giving of red envelopes filled with money to children and loved ones

Modern-Day Celebrations

While the Lunar New Year is still celebrated with traditional activities and foods, modern-day celebrations have also incorporated more contemporary elements. For example, many people now exchange digital red envelopes and participate in online festivities. Additionally, the Lunar New Year has become a popular time for travel and tourism, with many people taking advantage of the holiday to visit family and friends or explore new destinations.

Historical Significance

The 1968 Lunar New Year took place during a tumultuous time in world history. The Vietnam War was raging, and the Civil Rights Movement was in full swing in the United States. In China, the Cultural Revolution was underway, and the country was in the midst of a period of great social and economic upheaval.

Impact on Asian Communities

The 1968 Lunar New Year had a significant impact on Asian communities around the world. For many people, the holiday was a time to come together and celebrate their cultural heritage, despite the challenges and uncertainties of the time. The Lunar New Year also served as a reminder of the importance of tradition, family, and community in the face of adversity.

Fun Facts

The 1968 Lunar New Year was on January 30th, according to the Gregorian calendar. The Monkey is one of the most popular animals in the Chinese zodiac, and is often associated with creativity, cleverness, and agility. The Lunar New Year is celebrated not only in China, but also in other East Asian countries such as Vietnam, Korea, and Singapore. The traditional colors of the Lunar New Year are red and gold, which symbolize good luck and prosperity.

Interesting Customs

In some Asian cultures, it is customary to wear new clothes on the first day of the Lunar New Year to symbolize a fresh start. The giving of oranges and tangerines is a traditional practice during the Lunar New Year, as the Chinese word for orange sounds like the word for "gold". In some countries, it is believed that the first person to visit a family's home on the Lunar New Year will bring good luck for the rest of the year.

Conclusion

The 1968 Lunar New Year was a significant event that brought people together to celebrate their cultural heritage and traditions. From the characteristics of people born in the year of the Monkey to the historical significance of the holiday, there is much to learn and appreciate about this fascinating topic. Whether you are of Asian descent or simply interested in learning more about different cultures, the Lunar New Year is a holiday that is sure to captivate and inspire.

What is the Lunar New Year?

The Lunar New Year is a traditional holiday celebrated in many East Asian countries, including China, Vietnam, Korea, and others. It is based on the lunar calendar and typically falls in late January or early February.

What is the significance of the Monkey in the Chinese zodiac?

The Monkey is one of the 12 animals in the Chinese zodiac and is associated with cleverness, agility, and mischievous personalities. People born in the year of the Monkey are known for their intelligence, wit, and adaptability.

What are some traditional Lunar New Year customs?

Traditional Lunar New Year customs include lion dances, dragon dances, fireworks, and the giving of red envelopes filled with money. It is also customary to wear new clothes, eat traditional foods, and visit family and friends during the holiday.