The Meaning of the Year of the Dragon in Lunar New Year 2024
Celebrating Lunar New Year 2024
Associate Professor Xiaohuan Zhao, from Chinese Studies in the School of Languages and Cultures, shares insights into the significance of being born in the Year of the Dragon or experiencing the Year of the Dragon in 2024.
What is Lunar New Year? And how does it differ from the Western New Year?
There are two prominent New Year celebrations among people of East Asian origins in Australia: the Western New Year and the Lunar New Year. The Western New Year, also known as the Gregorian New Year, is celebrated globally on 1 January, marking the beginning of the Gregorian calendar year. In contrast, the Lunar New Year, also called the Spring Festival or Chinese New Year, follows the lunisolar calendar and typically falls between 21 January and 20 February.
While both New Year celebrations share some similarities, they also hold distinct customs and traditions. The Western New Year is widely recognized worldwide and often involves parties, countdowns, and various festivities. On the other hand, the Lunar New Year holds special significance in the Sinosphere, including China, Taiwan, Hong Kong, and other regions historically influenced by Chinese culture.
Happy New Year! photo of a Chinese Lion Dance for New Year Chinese lion dance for Chinese new year celebrations. Photo: AdobeStock
The Lunar New Year, or Chinese New Year, is deeply rooted in cultural and traditional practices. It is a time for family reunions, paying respects to ancestors, and embracing the arrival of spring. Whether celebrating with fireworks and parties on 1 January or enjoying traditional rituals like dragon and lion dances during the Lunar New Year, both occasions offer opportunities to welcome the new year with joy and anticipation.
Why is 2024 Lunar New Year called the Year of the Wood Dragon?
Bright blue lanterns in the shape of dragons in the street at night time Dragons at the Lantern Festival for the 2024 Chinese New Year, the Year of the Dragon in Shanghai, China, January 2024. Photo: AdobeStock
The Chinese zodiac comprises a 12-year cycle, with each year associated with an animal sign. The Dragon is the fifth animal sign in the cycle, making 2024 the Year of the Dragon. Additionally, each year is linked to one of the five basic elements: Metal, Wood, Water, Fire, or Earth. The Year of the Dragon in 2024 is specifically designated as the Year of the Wood Dragon.
The Lunar New Year will commence on 10 February 2024, marking the onset of the Year of the Wood Dragon.
What are the traits of individuals born in the Year of the Dragon?
According to Chinese zodiac beliefs, individuals born in the Year of the Dragon are characterized by certain qualities associated with the dragon. They are often described as ambitious, confident, and charismatic, possessing abundant energy and intelligence. While they are considered lucky and successful in their endeavors, they may also exhibit negative traits such as arrogance and dominance.
It's important to note that these traits are generalizations, and individual personalities may vary significantly. The years of the dragon include: 1916, 1928, 1940, 1952, 1964, 1976, 1988, 2000, and 2012.
What are the taboos during the Year of the Dragon?
The Year of the Dragon is associated with specific taboos observed in various regions of the Sinic world. Some common taboos include:
- Avoid using characters related to dogs in names or writings.
- Refrain from placing the bed in the northwest corner of the bedroom.
- Avoid wearing dog-shaped jewelry or acquiring a new puppy.
- Exercise caution when collaborating with or marrying individuals born in the Year of the Dog or the Year of the Tiger.
Auspicious practices for the Year of the Dragon 2024: Wear yellow, decorate with blue
In Chinese astrology, each zodiac sign is linked to a lucky color believed to enhance prosperity and fortune. For individuals born in the Year of the Dragon in 2024, gold and yellow are considered auspicious colors. Gold symbolizes success and wealth, while yellow represents stability and wealth. Wearing yellow clothing or accessories and incorporating yellow decorations can attract luck and prosperity in the Year of the Wood Dragon.