When is Chinese New Year 2022 and what is the animal?

IT’S the most date in the Chinese calendar year. As over one billion people prepare to celebrate and feast with friends and family, let’s take a look at this year’s Chinese New Year. GettyThe 2022 Lunar New Year marks the year of the tiger[/caption] When is Chinese New Year 2022? The Chinese New Year (also known as the lunar new year or the Spring Festival) begins with the rising of the second new moon after the winter solstice (December 21). This can take place on any date between January 21 and February 20. New Year is celebrated by Chinese communities across the world. The festivities recognise bringing luck and prosperity in the new year, as another one ends.  Families celebrate with banquets and outdoor spectacles featuring firecrackers, fireworks and often dancing dragons. The major celebrations are held on New Year’s Eve and New Year’s Day. Most read in World News DANCING DUKE Six times Andy cozied up to women on nights out as he claims he 'didn't party' MASSAGE TRAGEDY Brit, 70, dies in 'happy ending' massage parlour in Thai resort of Pattaya EDGE OF WAR Ukraine border is like the calm before storm & the locals are ready for Russia FOOTIE HORROR Brit footballer, 35, dies suddenly in Dubai livestream queen Inside life of 'Barbie' teen, 19, who built £5m fortune from nothing BUSTING OUT Trolls hate me for my world-record ZZZ boobs but men see me as ultimate fantasy Preparations for the 2022 new year begin on January 24, and last until New Years Eve. Chinese New Year officially begins on February 1, and ends on February 11. People will then celebrate the Lantern Festival, with preparations beginning on February 12, and the festivity is held on February 15. What is the animal in Chinese New Year 2022? Each year is associated with one of the 12 animals in the Chinese zodiac.  This year is the Year of the Tiger. It is said that children born in the year ahead will be brave, competitive and strong. What is the year of the Tiger? The Year of the Tiger is the third zodiac. According to legend, Tiger was confident that no one could compete with its speed and vigor for the celestial race that would decide the order of the zodiacs. However, when Tiger climbed out of the river, thinking it was first, it was informed that Rat placed first for its cunning and Ox placed second for its diligence. This left the king of the jungle having to settle for third place. People born in years of the Tiger are vigorous and ambitious, daring and courageous, enthusiastic and generous, self-confident with a sense of justice and a commitment to help others for the greater good. Lucky Things for Tigers Lucky colours: blue, greenLucky numbers: 1, 3, 7Lucky flowers: plum blossomLucky directions: north Unlucky Things for Tigers Unlucky colours: whiteUnlucky numbers: 4, 9