1. This marks the transition between years, bidding farewell to the old and welcoming the new. "Zǐ" (子) refers to the "Zǐ hour" (midnight), which sounds similar to "jiǎo" (饺, dumplings). Eating dumplings symbolizes "changing the year and welcoming the new hour," embodying "celebratory reunion" and "auspicious blessings."
2. Dumplings resemble ingots in shape and contain fillings, allowing people to wrap various auspicious and joyful items inside. Thus, eating dumplings during the Spring Festival also carries the meaning of "attracting wealth and treasures."
3. Dumplings are a traditional Chinese delicacy, so they naturally feature prominently during the Spring Festival, a traditional holiday.
Pasting Spring Couplets
Pasting Spring Couplets is a traditional Spring Festival custom. During this time, every household adorns their doorways with red couplets, commonly called "door couplets" or "spring stickers." Some also paste the character "福" (meaning "good fortune"), with both couplets and the "福" character typically rendered in red to enhance the festive atmosphere.
Eating the New Year's Eve Dinner
The New Year's Eve dinner is another vital tradition. Also called the reunion dinner or family reunion feast, it specifically refers to the family gathering on New Year's Eve. This is the most lavish and significant meal of the year. There are many customs surrounding it: typically, the family first pays respects to the gods and ancestors before the meal begins.
Staying Awake Through the Night
On New Year's Eve, families traditionally stay awake all night. During this vigil, the "year fire" is lit in the home, keeping the household together. This sacred flame must remain burning until the new year arrives. Additionally, candles are placed under beds and throughout the house to "illuminate the void." It is believed that this practice ensures the household will be filled with wealth in the coming year.
Lucky Money
On New Year's Eve, elders give children "lucky money" (yasui qian). Ancient Chinese believed this practice carried auspicious meaning—warding off evil spirits and ensuring safety. Thus, elders bestow this money upon younger generations to pray for their peaceful passage through the coming year.