| The lunar New Year is like a long red thread that runs through the history of the Chinese people. It passes through thousands of years, links China's two great rivers, crosses the Straits of Taiwan and, indeed, extends throughout the world, creating an intricate web throughout time and space that cannot be broken. It represents everything that the Chinese people are: their religious, ethical, social, culinary and artistic beliefs. Many provinces from mainland China are also represented here in Taiwan: in addition there are the aboriginal peoples. Taiwan's Lunar New Year is consequently more pluralistic than in any other place, incorporating elements from all over mainland China. A new and prosperous lifestyle has also added new elements to the celebration of the New Year. Taiwan's Lunar New Year is Chinese culture in miniature. Moreover, modernization, progress and diversification of culture have led Taiwanese to reinterpret the New Year, making it a more spectacular event than ever before. |
