Traditional events start with drinking soup of the eighth day

The New Year provides a chance to discard past misfortunes and to start afresh. Below is a sequence of traditional events from the 12th moon.

12th Moon Day 8: Offering of labazhou (soup of the eighth day).

Day 23 or 24: Kitchen God ascends to Heaven.

Day 28: Everyone cleans up the house and takes a bath with pomelo leaves to keep away diseases and ward off misfortunes.

Day 30: New Year's Eve. Offerings to gods and ancestors are made, family reunion meal takes place. Elders distribute 'money of the passing year' to young heirs of the family.

First Moon Day 1: New Year's Day. Pay respect to elders, set off firecrackers, burn incense and wor ship deities. Call on friends and relatives.