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浏览Title: The New Year's Eve: A Time of Reunion and Celebration
The New Year's Eve, as the most important and grandest festival in China, is eagerly awaited by people of all ages. It marks the end of the old year and the beginning of a new one. On this special night, families gather together, sharing joy, love, and blessings. In this essay, I will describe the customs and activities of the New Year's Eve in China.
As the night falls, the streets of every city are adorned with red lanterns and banners, symbolizing happiness and prosperity. The air is filled with the scent of fireworks and the sound of laughter. People from all walks of life are preparing for this grand occasion.
One of the most important customs on the New Year's Eve is to have a family reunion dinner. This is the time when people put aside their busy schedules and return to their hometowns to spend the night with their families. The dinner is usually held at the parents' house, and it is customary for the eldest son or daughter to invite everyone.
The table is laden with an array of delicious dishes, symbolizing the prosperity and abundance of the new year. Common dishes include dumplings, fish, and spring rolls. Dumplings are believed to bring good luck and fortune, as their shape resembles ancient Chinese money. Fish, on the other hand, symbolizes wealth and prosperity, as the word for fish in Chinese sounds like the word for abundance. Spring rolls are eaten to bring happiness and good luck.
As the dinner comes to an end, the family members gather around the table, sharing stories and laughter. They exchange red envelopes, filled with money, as a symbol of good wishes and blessings for the new year. This is a time for families to bond and strengthen their relationships.
Another significant custom on the New Year's Eve is the watching of the Spring Festival Gala. This is a television program broadcasted by China Central Television (CCTV) every year on the evening of the New Year's Eve. It features a variety of performances, including songs, dances, acrobatics, and comedy skits. The Spring Festival Gala is a time for families to come together and enjoy the performances while sharing snacks and drinks.
As midnight approaches, the entire city is filled with the sound of fireworks and crackers. People take to the streets to watch the spectacular display of fireworks, lighting up the night sky with vibrant colors. This is a time to celebrate the arrival of the new year and to wish for good fortune and happiness in the coming year.
The New Year's Eve is also a time for people to visit their ancestors' graves. They clean the tombs, burn incense, and offer food and drinks to pay their respects. This is a way to honor their ancestors and to seek their blessings for the new year.
In conclusion, the New Year's Eve is a time of joy, love, and reunion. It is a celebration of life, prosperity, and happiness. Through its customs and activities, the New Year's Eve brings families and communities closer together, fostering a sense of unity and harmony. As we bid farewell to the old year and welcome the new one, let us cherish the moments we share with our loved ones and strive for a brighter and more prosperous future.