Monday, August 20, 2007

The World Chinese New Year Barbie Doll


On the first day of the First Moon of the lunar calendar, the most important celebration in China begins. Homes are decorated with paper banners adorned with happy wishes, pretty flowers and platters of oranges and tangerine. At midnight on Chinese New Year's Eve, fireworks fire and the festival begins.

One of the most wondrous spectacles of the festival is the dragon dance. Many people carry long silk dragons, dancing in procession as musicians play gongs and drums. A happy celebrant is dressed in a silky red gown decorated with yellow flowers and a phoenix, a symbol of happiness and joy. Flowers and butterflies, symbols of long life and beauty, are in her upswept hair. She is very happy to receive the gift of a red Lai-See Envelope.