Interesting facts about LNY 2024
1. Significance of the Dragon Year
As you might know, 2024 is the year of the dragon. According to Eastern beliefs, the dragon is one of the most auspicious animals across the twelve zodiac animals. In fact, there is a common Chinese idiom that perfectly captures this—龙马精神 (lóng ma jīng shén)— which translates into the ‘spirit of the dragon and horse’.
The dragon is a symbol deeply rooted in Eastern tradition for its association with strength, health, and good fortune. According to the Chinese Zodiac, if you were born in respective dragon years (1952, 1964, 1976, 1988, 2000, 2012), you will be blessed with creativity and innovation this year. However, it’s also advised to remain grounded, as humility is considered essential for long term success.
2. Traditions in CNY
There are several long standing traditions to follow during CNY. One of the most common traditions is doing spring cleaning! Homes are thoroughly cleaned to ‘sweep away bad luck’ and make way for good fortune. So, if you’re feeling a bit unmotivated to clean, perhaps this tradition can offer you some inspiration!
Besides spring cleaning, CNY is celebrated through reunion dinners. These gatherings provide a rare opportunity for extended families to get together and catch up. In Chinese culture, family provides a strong sense of identity towards one’s self, creating an extremely tight knit community.
3. Modern Practices in CNY
In the age of digitalisation, it is inevitable for some traditions to undergo modernisation. For instance, instead of giving physical red packets (hóng bāo), it is getting increasingly common to send digital red packets. This practice was further heightened during the peak of the Covid-19 pandemic, where families were unable to physically meet up. Today, there are several banking apps that offer this feature. So, if you haven’t tried it yet, give it a go this year!
Despite the influence of contemporary society, it is still imperative to cherish those traditions that we can still afford to preserve. These traditions cultivate a sense of belonging and identity, enriching our shared human experience.
4. Places to Sightsee
For those seeking to experience the spirit of CNY, various events offer a glimpse into the rich heritage. For instance, the Official Street Light-Up in Chinatown consists of vibrant street ornaments, ranging from striking red lanterns to majestic dragon sculptures.
Another place to visit would be Marina Bay Sands, where a drone show called ‘The Legend of the Dragon Gate’ will be taking place. Starting in early February this year, 1500 drones will create a mesmerising display of a dragon across the night sky. Such a wondrous spectacle is not to be missed!
5. Heartware – River Hongbao 2024
At last, we have finally come to the most exciting part—River Hongbao 2024! It is a 10-day extravaganza of lights, sights, and sounds to usher in the Year of the Dragon. It will be held at the Gardens by the Bay from 8 February to 17 February. Since its first rendition in 1987, River Hongbao has become the most anticipated Chinese New Year event in Singapore! Heartware Network is proud to be a part of this celebration, having deployed enthusiastic volunteers to create a seamless experience for all visitors.
While you’re there, remember to look out for the larger-than-life lantern sets scattered about! This year’s centrepiece is called the ‘Prosperous Year of the Dragon’, which features a 140 metre long dragon and a 18 metre tall God of Fortune. Besides its infamous sculptures, River Hongbao 2024 includes a food bazaar, an AI art contest, and even amusement rides!
While you immerse yourself in such a celebratory experience, don’t forget to thank the Heartware Volunteers and staff who put in so much effort to create a seamless experience for all visitors.
From Heartware Network, we wish you a joyous and prosperous Chinese New Year! May the Year of the Dragon bring you abundance, good fortune, and moments of warmth with loved ones!
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Article written by Chin Yi (Heartware Content Creator 2023 Cycle 2)
Graphic designed by Dewi (Heartware Content Creator 2023 Cycle 2)
