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On February 1, 2022, we entered the Year of the Tiger. And the Chinese New Year shifts from the Year of the Ox.

Around the world, there will be few public celebrations. The techno-pandemic continues to pose a threat and masks are still on. And lockdowns continue in many countries.

Lunar New Year festivities typically last for several days in Asian countries. It is known as the Spring Festival in China. The Lunar New Year/Spring Festival holiday is sometimes known as the Chinese New Year. But it is widely celebrated in other Asian countries like South Korea and Vietnam, not just in China.

Year of the Water Tiger Astrology

 2022 is a Water Tiger year. 

Every 12 years is a Tiger year in the Chinese zodiac. Starting with 1950, Tiger years were 1962, 1974, 1986, 1998, and 2010.

And there are five Chinese elements. This includes Fire, Earth, Metal, Water, and Wood. So, a Water Tiger year occurs only every 60 years. The last time this happened was in 1962.

Tiger years highlight changes. And big events. We are leaving 2021 the year of the Metal Ox, which is about steady progress, hard work and pragmatism. The Ox is about acceptance and dislikes change. The Tiger represents power and defiance. And is boldly seeking change.

Tigers are royal animals. And they can be ferocious. And this is the year of big ideas, brave actions and major changes.

On the negative side, the Year of the Tiger and those born in Tiger years can be rebellious, impulsive and angry.  So, keep your temper in check and get ready for explosive and interesting times.

Lunar New Year and Lantern Festival Celebrations

The 26th day of the last lunar month (January 28th this year) begins traditional celebrations. Symbolic food like turnip cakes, fish dishes and puddings are made. These dishes are known as “Gao” in Mandarin or “go” in Cantonese. 

The food on the lunar menu is chosen to include foods associated with luck, including fish, puddings and dumplings. The color red is also known to draw good luck.

Candy boxes and snacks are prepared as people visit friends and relatives. Families hand out red packets filled with money to children. And everyone wishes each other good luck and prosperity.

During this time people clean up their homes. It is an attempt to shift the energy and rid the area of any bad luck that may have accumulated. 

The Lunar New Year is observed with three to seven days of public holidays. And celebrations end with the 15th day of the first lunar month, known as the Lantern Festival.

On the last day (usually Feb. 15) it is claimed that in ancient China young girls could go out to admire lanterns and meet boys. That’s why it's also known as Chinese Valentine's Day.

Even in Western cities there are massive lantern displays and fairs on the last day of the Lunar New Year festivities.