THE Spring Festival marks the first day of the Chinese lunar calendar and is the most festive of all Chinese holidays.The origin of this festival can be traced back many centuries to ancient Chinese ceremonies of sacrifices and prayer rituals to usher in the new year.During the development and evolution of history,some of the customs became established and have been preserved to this day.New Year celebrations that were based on offering prayers and sacrifices to the heavens are rich in variety,such as letting go of the old and taking hold of the new,welcoming happiness,worshipping ancestors,and praying for abundant harvests,all of which create rich festive atmosphere and embody the essence of the Chinese traditional culture.