Chinese New Year 2025: 7 things not to do during the Spring Festival

The Spring Festival is China’s traditional holiday, and in ancient times, there was no festival called “Spring Festival.” During the Qin Dynasty, it was known as “Zhengdan” or “Year’s Beginning,” and later it was called “New Year’s Day.” Since the Xinhai Revolution, it has been officially called “New Year’s Eve,” while New Year’s Day was set on January 1 of the solar calendar. There are also various 2025 Chinese New Year Taboos that people should be aware of during this celebration.

The Spring Festival is the most significant holiday for the Chinese people, and until now, many of the old customs have been preserved. We eat dumplings, paste Spring Couplets on doors, set off fireworks, and there are some details that many people may overlook.

During the Spring Festival, do not forget the “seven taboos” left by our ancestors. They represent the good wishes for the future life of people and the hope that the family can live in peace and happiness.

Therefore, everyone must know these seven taboos and pass them down by word and example to their children and descendants. This is the continuation of a better life and do not ruin the rules out of ignorance.

1.Do not say unlucky words

During the New Year, not only do we pay our respects and show politeness by greeting others, but we should also be careful about what we say, whether at home or outside. Avoid saying unlucky words like “This is annoying” or “What bad luck,” as these words may bring misfortune. It is customary to say auspicious words and wish each other well, as we all hope for a smooth and healthy year ahead.

Although children may speak without thinking, it is important to teach them to avoid unlucky words during the New Year. It is believed that speaking unlucky words can bring bad luck. The power of language is immeasurable, and kind words can warm the heart. Especially during this important festival, we should be mindful of our speech.

2.Leave a burning light on New Year’s Eve

On New Year’s Eve, family members stay up together until the stroke of midnight, welcoming the new year with the sound of church bells. However, after midnight, it is time to sleep, but make sure to leave a light burning. This is called the “Eternal Light,” symbolizing bright prospects for the coming year.

3.Do not take medication

If possible, avoid taking medication during the New Year, especially on New Year’s Eve. Taking medication implies that you are not in good health, which is not a favorable thing. No one wishes to be unwell, especially during this significant holiday.

Avoiding medication symbolizes a year of good health, but this is just a hope for the future. If you are sick or feeling unwell, you should still take medication as needed.

4.Do not sweep or dump garbage on the first day of the year

The first day of the New Year is a new beginning, and no matter what happened in the past, we should be optimistic about the future. It is believed that sweeping on the first day of the New Year may sweep away good luck. Moreover, relatives and friends visit on the first day, and it is a time for celebration, so sweeping may offend people.

5.Have fish in the New Year’s Eve dinner

The New Year’s Eve dinner is the highlight of the festival, a time for family reunion, and food is a catalyst for happiness. The New Year’s Eve dinner must not be without fish, which symbolizes abundance. The head and tail of the fish should be left uneaten, as it is a custom passed down from older generations.

6.Do not beat children on New Year’s Eve

During the New Year, relatives should not scold or beat children, as older generations believe that if a child is scolded on New Year’s Eve, they will be scolded throughout the year. Moreover, the New Year is a time for joy and happiness, and unless a child has committed a serious mistake, there is no need to scold or punish them, or it may leave a psychological shadow on the child.

Children already face significant academic pressure, so besides taking care of their physical health, it is also important to pay attention to their mental health. The New Year is a time for relaxation and joy, so spend more time with your children, forget about worries, and celebrate the festival happily.

7.Do not break plates or bowls

Be careful not to break plates or bowls during the New Year, as it is believed to bring bad luck. If accidentally break a plate or bowl, wrap it in red paper to avoid cutting yourself, and say “crackles for peace” to express the wish that good luck will not be affected.

8.Summary:

Do you know the “seven taboos” left by our ancestors during the Spring Festival? These traditional customs and habits also represent our hope for a better life. Spread this knowledge to your family!