The Spring Festival is the most important festival for the Chinese people and is when all family members get together.

Several days before the new year, people begin to prepare. Farmers kill pigs, sheep, cocks and hens. City Dwellers buy meat, fish and vegetables. Houses are cleaned; couplets are posted on the doors. Colorful lanterns are hung at the gate.

Families get together in the evening before the Spring Festival and have a big meal. In many places, people like to set off firecrackers. Dumplings are the most traditional food. Children like the festival very much, because they can have delicious food and wear new clothes. They can also get some money from their parents. This money is given to children for good luck. People put New Year's scrolls on the wall for good fortune.

On the first day of the Spring Festival, most people get up early and say "Happy New Year" to each other. On the second and third day, people always visit friends and relatives.

(By Yang Jiming/Qi Qian)