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As Chinese New Year approaches, homes and streets come alive with vibrant colours, festive decorations, and the sweet fragrance of blooming flowers. In Chinese culture, flowers hold profound symbolic significance, representing various virtues, blessings, and aspirations. We delve into the rich traditions surrounding the use of flowers during the auspicious celebration of Chinese New Year.
1. Symbolic significance of flowers
Flowers play a pivotal role in Chinese New Year celebrations, with each bloom carrying its unique meaning. Plum blossoms symbolise courage and resilience, while peonies represent wealth and prosperity. Orchids embody refinement and beauty, and chrysanthemums signify longevity and rejuvenation. Understanding the symbolism behind these flowers is essential for creating a meaningful and auspicious New Year atmosphere.
2. Home decor with flowers
The custom of adorning homes with flowers is deeply rooted in Chinese New Year traditions. Families meticulously decorate their living spaces with auspicious blooms to attract positive energy and good fortune. Doorways are adorned with vibrant floral arrangements, and homes are filled with the fragrance of fresh flowers, creating a warm and welcoming atmosphere for the arrival of the new lunar year.
3. Mandarin orange and floral pairings
Mandarin oranges, symbolising wealth and good luck, are often paired with flowers during Chinese New Year. This combination is believed to enhance the positive energies surrounding the celebrations. Bouquets featuring auspicious flowers and mandarin oranges are commonly exchanged as gifts, expressing well-wishes for a prosperous and harmonious year ahead.
4. Traditional flower arrangements
The art of flower arranging, known as Ikebana, holds a special place in Chinese New Year customs. Intricate arrangements featuring lucky flowers and foliage are created to enhance the overall festive ambiance. These arrangements are not only visually stunning but also serve as a reflection of the cultural values and wishes for the coming year.
5. Temple offerings
Beyond homes, temples play a significant role in Chinese New Year celebrations. Devotees visit temples to offer prayers and make symbolic offerings. Flowers, often arranged in intricate patterns, are presented as a gesture of reverence and devotion. The vibrant colours and fragrances of these floral displays create a sacred and spiritually uplifting environment.
6. Festive flower markets
Leading up to Chinese New Year, bustling flower markets emerge across cities and towns, offering an array of auspicious blooms. Families flock to these markets to select flowers that align with their aspirations for the coming year. The lively atmosphere, filled with the hustle and bustle of shoppers, adds to the excitement of the season.
Conclusion
Flowers weave together symbolism, cultural significance, and the collective hopes of a community. As you can see above, the role of flowers in Chinese New Year customs is a testament to the rich cultural heritage and enduring traditions that continue to blossom with each passing lunar year.
As we celebrate this auspicious occasion, let the blooming flowers be a reminder of the beauty and prosperity that Chinese New Year brings into our lives. At Hilton Gifts, you can find some of these flowers, alongside Chinese New Year hampers in Singapore, that are carefully curated by our in-house florists.
Simply chat with us at hilton@singnet.com.sg or 6382 3771 to find out more about our products and delivery service.