18 beautiful photos of traditional Chinese New Year celebrations around the world

Eduardo Munoz/Reuters

Chinese New Year is the most important among the traditional Chinese holidays.

Also known as Lunar New Year, the holiday is celebrated on the first Monday of the first month on the Lunar calendar, which is based on the moon's orbit, rather than the western Gregorian calendar, which is based on the earth's orbit. This year, the Lunar New Year falls on February 8.

The celebrations are inspired by a famous legend that says the evil beast Nien eats people on New Year's Eve. Since Nien is said to fear loud noises and the color red, celebrants light firecrackers, carry torches, and don red clothing to fend him off.

The celebrations then usually last for 14 more days. 

As a way to frighten off Nien, the evil beast, people place red envelopes on their doors, light torches, and set off firecrackers throughout the night.

Children and unmarried adults are given red envelopes with money from their parents, family members, friends, or neighbors. It is believed that these gifts get rid of any evil that might be around the child, and help grant them a long, healthy life. The color red symbolizes good luck.

A few days prior to Chinese New Year, people deep clean their homes and purchase decorations.