Families prepare food and stay awake together on New Year’s Eve, a tradition known as “Shousui” . Staying Up on New Year’s Eve: A Timeless Chinese Tradition of Family and Renewal One of the most meaningful traditions of the Chinese New Year is staying up on New Year’s Eve , known as Shousui (守岁). Practiced for centuries, this custom represents family unity, respect for time, and the hopeful transition from the old year to the new. More than a festive habit, Shousui reflects the Chinese understanding of time as a cycle—where endings and beginnings are deeply connected. The Origin of Shousui The tradition of staying awake on New Year’s Eve dates back to ancient China. Historical records trace it to the Zhou Dynasty, where families remained awake to welcome blessings, ward off misfortune, and ensure peace in the coming year. In early belief systems, the night marked a vulnerable moment when negative forces might appear. Staying awake symbolized vigilance and protection, gradually ...
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