On December 4, 2024, at the 19th session of the UNESCO Intergovernmental Committee for the Safeguarding of Intangible Cultural Heritage held in Asunción, Paraguay, the Committee officially decided to include “Spring Festival – The Social Practice of Celebrating the Chinese New Year” in the Representative List of the Intangible Cultural Heritage of Humanity. This historic decision marks a global recognition of the cultural significance of the Chinese New Year, a celebration that has been passed down through generations and is deeply rooted in Chinese traditions.
The Spring Festival, also known as the Chinese New Year, is one of the most important traditional festivals in China. It has a history spanning thousands of years, rich with cultural practices, rituals, and symbols. During the celebration, people engage in various customs, including family reunions, special festive meals, ancestor worship, dragon and lion dances, and setting off fireworks. The festival is celebrated with joy and harmony, emphasizing values of unity, prosperity, and good fortune for the coming year.
In addition to being celebrated in China, the Spring Festival has become a significant event for Chinese communities around the world, transcending national borders. Each year, millions of people participate in public and private celebrations, not only in China but also in countries across Asia and beyond, reflecting the growing global spread of this cultural tradition.
The decision to inscribe the Spring Festival on the Intangible Cultural Heritage List highlights the international community’s respect for and recognition of China’s rich cultural heritage. It also strengthens efforts to protect and preserve this vital cultural practice. UNESCO’s recognition of the Spring Festival will serve as an international platform for cultural exchange and the promotion of global awareness about this traditional celebration.
The cultural value of the Spring Festival extends beyond the festive activities themselves. It embodies the deep meaning of family reunions, cultural continuity, and social cohesion. As globalization continues to progress, more and more people, regardless of their cultural background, are participating in the celebrations. The Spring Festival has grown into a global cultural event, uniting people from all walks of life in a shared appreciation of Chinese traditions.
UNESCO’s decision underscores the importance of safeguarding intangible cultural heritage in today’s interconnected world. It also presents new opportunities for promoting cross-cultural dialogue and mutual understanding. Through this recognition, the Spring Festival will continue to play a vital role in fostering cultural diversity and enriching the shared heritage of humanity.
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