The joyful sounds of firecrackers and laughter fill the air as millions of families engage in festivities to celebrate the new year. Beginning on the first day of the lunar calendar, Chinese New Year is one of the most widely celebrated holidays in Asia. It traditionally symbolizes the removal of evils and misfortunes, as well as the welcoming of hope and prosperity.
Fireworks are used to scare away evil spirits, while families hang New Year couplets, images of family guardians, and auspicious characters on their front doors to avert bad luck. People don their finest new clothes—typically in red, a lucky color—and gather with loved ones to indulge in delectable meals.
