The Chinese New Year 农历新年, the year of the Rat, 鼠 as well as the public holiday for a number of countries and cultures.
The Nian, a man-eating beast from the mountains (other versions has it from the seas) comes out every 12 months to prey on humans. The Nian, easily startled by loud noises & the colour red, led to the custom of fireworks and celebrating with red.
Red packets, known as Ang Pow, laisee, lai see, red packets, hung bao or Hung-Bao are given out as gifts. However, it is given out to juniors and children by married people and elders.
I have learned something, the number 4 is not considered good luck. You would not see 4 dollars in a red packet or a box of tea cups.
Cleaning house during the New Year as well is not encouraged because you risk sweeping away your good luck.
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