Happy Chinese New Year 2017! This year is the year of the rooster. It is also known as the Spring Festival, which is marked by the lunisolar Chinese calendar. This is why the date changes every year.

The festivities always start the day before the New Year, and will continue until the Lantern Festival, or the 15th day of New Year.  

Every Chinese New Year is represented by one of 12 animals in the Chinese zodiac. The Chinese Zodiac is divided into 12 blocks, but each house has a time-length of one year, instead of one month like its western counterparts.

The Rooster is the tenth animal in the zodiac cycle. The next year of the rooster will be in 2029.

Here is the personality type for someone born in the year of the rooster:

They are honest, energetic, intelligent, flexible and confident. However, according to Chinese astrology, the year of your sign is believed to be one of the unluckiest years of your life.

Generally, people in this zodiac sign are hardworking, resourceful, confident and talented. They are also very popular with people due to how sociable, active, talkative and engaging they are. They prefer being in the spotlight, and in the company of people they know. Unfortunately, they still have several shortcomings, such as being seen as vain and arrogant because of their tendency to brag about their achievements. They can also sometimes be sensitive, liable to stress, or moody.

Millions of people are celebrating this Chinese New Year. The Dragon Dance was performed in London, Trafalgar Square on Saturday 28th January, to many people’s enjoyment. Families who prefer to stay at home get together and exchange presents and money in red envelope for luck. Incense is burned in groups as people hope for another succesful year. 

by Ishita Swaroop Newstead Wood School