The Chinese calendar names each of the twelve years after an animal.

Legends say that before Lord Buddha departed from the earth, he summoned all the animals to come to him. Only twelve came to bid him farewell and as a reward he named a year after each one in the order they arrived.

Eating traditional Chinese food and lighting of colourful lanterns are the main rituals of the Chinese New Year. This day is also marked by traditional folk songs, dance and lantern shows. The core message that the Chinese New Year celebration carries is that of peace, prosperity, happiness and brotherhood.