![]() ![]() The villagers returned the next morning, and to their surprise, the old man was safe and sound. When the bamboo heated up, the air sealed in its hollow chambers expanded, and produced an explosive “Boom!” The noise startled the monster, and he ran away, never to be seen again. He tossed bamboo sticks into a bonfire that he’d prepared earlier. He went on, desperate for a late-night meal. The energy radiating from the talismans made him dizzy, but he was too hungry to care. But before he could enter, he saw three red banners that had been hung around entrance and he paused. He approached the door, licking his lips, ready to pounce on the poor victim inside. That night, the monster came to the village and saw candlelight shining in the window of one house. I have a secret weapon to help fight this thing.” Although she let him stay at her house, she departed with everyone else. She was skeptical, but the beggar said, “Just leave it to me. ![]() The old man said, “If you let me stay in your house for one night, I can promise you that the monster will never come back again.” However, one kind old lady gave him rice and urged him to flee with the rest of the village. He was a stranger, and the people were too busy running away to tend to him. ![]() As the residents of a village were packing up for their escape one year, an ancient man visited, begging for food. People lived in fear of him, and they’d board up their houses before going somewhere to hide. His favorite things to eat were children and livestock. Every year, before the spring arrived, Nian would emerge from his den and hunt for prey. Once upon a time, there was a fearsome monster called Nian (年, pronounced Nián). If you’re ever wondered “Why firecrackers? What do those red signs say?” these traditions are tied to an ancient Chinese legend. For people in many countries around the world, it’s a time for annual family gatherings that feature special gifts and meals … and more firecrackers. The Lunar New Year is a joyous, noisy winter holiday - its days are filled with parades, bright red signs and banners with good-luck messages, and firecrackers. Stocksy A warm look at the Chinese legends and rituals of one of the most important festivals in the world, as shared by entrepreneur and Chineasy creator ShaoLan Hsueh. ![]()
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