One can't say any foul language or negative words. For good fortune in the Lunar New Year, one must always say positive, good luck words. A picture of the kitchen god hangs in the kitchen year-round in the belief that he goes to heaven at the end of the year to tell the almighty jade god all the good and bad things about the family. The picture is taken down, placed on a paper horse and brought into the backyard with much ceremony, then burned to send the kitchen god on his way to heaven. A new kitchen god is hung for the subsequent year to look over the family.
Families hang scrolls in doorways for good luck, health and prosperity.
A family reunion meal takes place, and food offerings are made to gods and ancestors. In the past, families stayed up all night in the belief that the longer one stays up, the longer one's parents will live. At midnight, firecrackers are exploded to scare away lazy or evil spirits. Red and pink flowers and blossoms are displayed, signifying a fresh and invigorating hope for the new year. Friends and family visit one another.