Why do we set off firecrackers during the Spring Festival? The meaning of setting off firecrackers during the Spring Festival

In China, we set off fireworks during every festive occasion. So, why do we set off firecrackers during the Chinese New Year? What is the origin of setting off firecrackers during Chinese New Year? What is the meaning of setting off firecrackers during the Chinese New Year? Next, let’s take a look at it together.

Why do we set off firecrackers during Chinese New Year?

The Origin and Records of Setting Off Firecrackers During Chinese New Year

1. Fan Li in the late Spring and Autumn Period: "On New Year's Eve, burning firecrackers and illuminating the silkworms in the fields by observing the color of the fire are both auspicious in a quiet night."
2. During the Western Han Dynasty, Dongfang Shuo also recorded the story of "firecrackers driving away mandrills" in "Shenyijing".
3. During the Liang Dynasty of the Northern and Southern Dynasties, Zong Yan wrote in his article (Jingchu Sui Shi Ji) that "On the first day of the first lunar month (Spring Festival),... people get up at the crowing of cocks..."
4. Liu Yuxi of the Tang and Song Dynasties: "An old dragon emerges from the pond, and firecrackers frighten mountain ghosts."
5. Li Ting of the Song Dynasty: "The house of an old man next door to Li Qi was haunted by a goblin. Qi ordered him to gather dozens of bamboos in the yard before the New Year and burn them so that they would burst with noises. The haunted man would become silent until dawn."
6. These records fully demonstrate that "firecrackers" originated in the Spring and Autumn Period, were popular in the Tang and Song Dynasties, and were more prosperous in the Song Dynasty than in the Tang Dynasty. By the Song Dynasty, firecrackers had become popular among the people.

Things to note when setting off firecrackers during the Chinese New Year

1. Fireworks and firecrackers have a strong explosive force. If some firecrackers are not extinguished, other people should not get close to them, especially children, as they may hurt themselves.
2. The products after setting off firecrackers will pollute water, soil and air, and cause smog weather, so we should try to avoid setting off fewer fireworks and dispose of the garbage after setting off in time.