The concept and date of "Little New Year" vary across regions. In China's Jiangsu, Zhejiang, and Shanghai areas, both the 24th day of the twelfth lunar month and the night before Chinese New Year's Eve are called Little New Year. In Nanjing, the Lantern Festival on the 15th day of the first lunar month is designated as Little New Year. In parts of Yunnan, it falls on the 16th day of the first lunar month, while in some southwestern and northern regions, it coincides with Chinese New Year's Eve. Therefore, the specific date of Little New Year depends on local customs.
Why the Little New Year Differs Between North and South
Customs and traditions vary.
The timing of the Little New Year also differs by region. In northern areas, it generally falls on the 23rd day of the twelfth lunar month, while many southern regions observe it on the 24th day.
Ancient tradition held the saying "Officials on the 23rd, commoners on the 24th, boat dwellers on the 25th," meaning officials observed it on the 23rd day of the twelfth lunar month, commoners on the 24th, and those living on water on the 25th. However, as northern regions were closer to the imperial capital, folk customs gradually adopted official practices, unconsciously shifting the Kitchen God ritual to the 23rd day. Southern regions, however, retained the original Han tradition of observing it on the 24th.
What are the customs of Little New Year?
Sacrificing to the Kitchen God
Little New Year is also the day when people sacrifice to the Kitchen God.Folklore holds that each year on this day, the Kitchen God ascends to heaven to report a household's deeds—both good and bad—to the Jade Emperor, who then dispenses rewards or punishments. Thus, during the sacrifice, people place offerings of candies, clear water, beans, and fodder on the Kitchen God's altar.
Sweeping Away Dust
The period from Little New Year until New Year's Eve is known as the "Spring Welcoming Days" or "Dust Sweeping Days." Households conduct thorough year-end cleanings to rid their homes of dirt and clutter. This practice symbolizes discarding the old to welcome the new and banishing misfortune.
Bathing and Haircuts
A folk saying goes, "Rich or poor, get a haircut for the New Year."Bathing and haircuts are typically done around the Little New Year.
Eating Zao Tang
As the saying goes, "On the twenty-third, sticky candied melon," during the Little New Year, people buy candied melon, hard candy, sesame candy, and other treats to offer to the Kitchen God, hoping to sweeten his words and ensure he reports favorably to heaven.
Is a reunion dinner required for the Little New Year?
Yes.
On Little New Year's Day, many families gather for a reunion dinner—a meal where all family members come together. This tradition embodies the Chinese collective cultural psychology, expressed through shared meals during the New Year celebrations.
The reunion dinner boasts a long history, rich cultural heritage, and widespread participation among Chinese descendants. Sharing this meal represents the most joyous and lively moment for families nationwide on New Year's Eve.