Which animals represent the Lunar New Year?

There are 12 animals that represent the Lunar New Year.  The first animal is the rat, and the last one is the pig. these animals were chosen for their symbolic traits. The full list of all 12 animals is rat, ox, tiger, rabbit, dragon, snake, horse, goat, monkey, rooster, dog, and the pig. These animals were chosen because of a myth about a race held between twelve animals. The race told a time measurement for the people. 

Why do people celebrate the Lunar New Year?

Chinese New Year was originally celebrated to honor gods and deities. It marks the beginning of the lunisolar calendar.  It also signifies the end of the year and winter, and the arrival of spring. It is believed to bring good luck for harvests and agriculture. Large feasts are often held as a part of tradition.  Families come together each year during this event to honor traditions and celebrate. there is a common tradition to give envelopes of  money to family. People like to wear new clothes, clean their homes, and light fireworks. Fireworks are commonly used during the lunar new year to scare off  evil spirits.

What is the purpose of the Lunar New Year

The reason the lunar new year is celebrated is also the purpose of it. This event is a large celebration used to honor the new year, the ending of winter and beginning of spring, a large feist, and a special time for people to honor their ancestors and deities.  There are many traditions associated with the lunar new year, wearing new clothes, large feasts, clean houses, these all have purposes. They signify new beginnings and unity.