For all who celebrate Chinese New Year, I hope you enjoyed it. Some of you may not know what I'm talking about at all. Wipe away your worries, because I'm going to explain everything. Hmm, what should I start with?

This is mainly celebrated to remove the bad and the old, so we can open the doors for the new and the good. It is a holiday in China, and it is also widely celebrated in South Korea, Vietnam, and countries with a significant overseas Chinese population.

In countries that celebrate this enthusiastic celebration, you might've seen that some streets are filled with animals—not actual animals, though. Here is a picture of one:

This also has something to do with the Chinese Zodiacs, which you can learn more about in one of are oourr chapters. Legend has it that whoever is born under that sign has similar traits. Here is a very interesting fact, tha many of you might not have heard of:

You cannot wash your hair on Chinese New Year because you are washing away fortune and good luck. Next time, I will remember to do so! I'm sure many of you will love what I'm about to say. Children receive lucky money in red envelopes, and it's not just any money but lucky money too! But why a red envelope? Great question! Red is a lucky colour in China because it is associated with life-generating energy (the sun, blood, and fire) and is the colour of celebrations and prosperity.

How did the legend of the Chinese New Year begin?

According to the legend, I heard that it started with a magical beast called Nian (who lived under the seas and mountains) during the annual spring festival. It would eat villages, especially children, during the night. Don't fear! Hogwarts is the safest place ever, and it's just a legend.

I'm sure I answered a few questions, and if you have any more, bring them over. I hope you enjoyed reading this chapter. Bye!

Written by Eleanor Raven