The Chinese New Year, also known as the Spring Festival or Lunar New Year, is the most important traditional festival in China and many other Asian countries. It marks the beginning of the lunar calendar year and is celebrated with various customs and traditions, including family gatherings, feasting, fireworks, and the giving of red envelopes (hongbao) for good luck. Each Chinese New Year is associated with one of the 12 zodiac animals, which rotates in a 12-year cycle.