The Lunar New Year is the most important Chinese festival, marking the arrival of spring. In preparation for the festival, the house is spruced-up, new clothes are bought, a new haircut is obtained and old debts are settled.
Most companies are also closed for three or more days to celebrate the occasion.
On the eve, family members from afar will gather to have the reunion dinner where dishes are served for their symbolism to a good and prosperous life. After the dinner, it is common practice to visit the flower market to buy plum and peach branches, which signify good luck. Kumquat trees are also popular. The most famous flower market is at Victoria Park on Hong Kong Island. The first day of New Year is when people visit relatives and friends and bring forth with them greetings for prosperity, good fortune and longevity.