Chinese New Year, also called the Spring Festival, traditionally, is the time for the Chinese to mark the end of the coldest part of the year and to look forward to the beginning of spring. It is symbolic of letting go of the past and welcoming new beginnings. It is a time for honouring one’s elders, reconciling and making amends, avoiding offence and establishing old ties. It’s also the time when China lights more fireworks than any other country of the world at any given point during the year.
More than 70 per cent of Singapore's population is ethnic Chinese
If you aren’t going to be celebrating Chinese New Year this year (and will be avoiding the crowds), but still want to honour our host nation and support your local community, then check out the latest volunteer postings on Expatgiving. You can give as little or as much time as suits you, but your help will most certainly bring you, and the people that you are helping, a new beginning.
Author
Emma Nobes