Imagine stepping into a world alive with fireworks, lion dances, and joyful families—this is Chinese New Year, but what made 1968 so special? In Chinese culture, each new year follows the lunar calendar and carries its own zodiac sign, shaping people’s destinies and memories. In this article, we’ll dive into the vibrant celebrations of Chinese New Year 1968, explore its historical context, uncover its zodiac animal, and reveal its deeper meanings.
Read on to discover why 1968 stands out in tradition!
The Chinese New Year of 1968: Celebrating the Year of the Earth Monkey
Unraveling the Chinese Zodiac and New Year
Every Chinese New Year marks the beginning of a new cycle according to the lunar calendar and the ancient Chinese zodiac. In 1968, Chinese New Year commenced on January 30th, ushering in the Year of the Earth Monkey. Far more than just a change of calendar, this year was imbued with rich traditions, symbolic meanings, and a unique blend of cultural heritage. Let’s explore what made the Chinese New Year of 1968 significant, from its zodiac animal to the enduring customs and beliefs surrounding it.
Origin and History of Chinese New Year
Chinese New Year, also known as the Spring Festival, is the most important traditional festival for Chinese people around the world. Its origins go back over 3,000 years, rooted in ancient agricultural society, marking the end of winter and the onset of spring.
For centuries, the festival has been tied closely to the lunar calendar. Each New Year marks both a fresh start and the rotating “zodiac year,” one of twelve animal signs. In 1968, this cycle reached the Monkey, specifically, the Earth Monkey.
The Chinese Zodiac: Why 1968 Is the Year of the Earth Monkey
The Twelve-Year Animal Cycle
The Chinese zodiac, known as Shengxiao (生肖), runs on a 12-year cycle, each year represented by an animal. The monkey is the ninth animal in this recurring sequence. The Year of the Monkey occurs every twelfth year (previous: 1956; next: 1980 after 1968).
The Earth Monkey: Combining Animal and Element
Chinese astrology weaves in another layer—each animal year is also paired with one of five elements: Wood, Fire, Earth, Metal, and Water. These elements rotate on a 10-year cycle, creating unique “types” for each zodiac animal.
1968’s Monkey was infused with the Earth element, making it a year of the “Earth Monkey” (土猴, tǔ hóu). The Earth element grounds the usual playfulness of the Monkey with practicality, reliability, and steadiness.
When Did the Year of the Earth Monkey Begin and End?
- Started: January 30, 1968 (Chinese New Year)
- Ended: February 16, 1969 (before the Year of the Rooster began)
Anyone born between these dates is considered an Earth Monkey under Chinese astrology.
Cultural Meaning and Symbolism of the Monkey
The Monkey: Clever, Mischievous, and Charismatic
In Chinese culture, the monkey stands for cleverness, curiosity, humor, and agility. Monkeys are loved for their lively spirit and ingenuity. In folklore, they often outwit stronger or bigger opponents.
Sun Wukong, the Monkey King
No discussion of the monkey’s symbolism in China is complete without mentioning Sun Wukong, the legendary Monkey King from the classic novel “Journey to the West.” Sun Wukong embodies intelligence, playfulness, rebellion, and the drive to overcome hardships—all qualities associated with those born in a Monkey year.
The Earth Element: Stability Meets Ingenuity
While Monkeys are naturally quick-witted and even a bit unpredictable, Earth Monkeys (those born in 1968) are seen as more grounded and reliable. The Earth element bestows patience, practicality, and a responsible nature onto the Monkey’s otherwise mischievous personality.
Chinese New Year 1968: Traditions and Festivities
Chinese New Year is observed with some of the most vibrant and cherished festivities in the world. While 1968’s celebrations would have echoed ancient customs, families and communities also added nuances relevant to the year’s zodiac sign.
Preparations Before the Festival
Families clean and decorate their homes, sweeping away bad luck and making space for good fortune. Red decorations, couplets, and Monkey-themed motifs would have been especially popular in 1968, symbolizing luck and warding off evil spirits.
Reunion and Feasting
On New Year’s Eve, families gather for a sumptuous reunion dinner. Dishes symbolizing prosperity (like dumplings, fish, and spring rolls) are enjoyed. In 1968, you might have found more playful monkey decorations or even monkey-shaped treats at the table.
Welcoming the New Year
Firecrackers, fireworks, and lion or dragon dances fill the streets with excitement. Children receive red envelopes (hongbao) filled with money for luck. The Monkey was seen as a playful bringer of blessings, so many 1968 children received monkey-themed gifts, toys, or charms.
Taboos and Superstitions
Many traditional beliefs guide behavior during the festival. For example, it’s best not to say unlucky words, break household items, or sweep the floor on New Year’s Day, as it could sweep away good fortune!
Personality Traits of the 1968 Earth Monkey
Nature and Character
People born in the Year of the Earth Monkey are said to be:
- Optimistic and Upbeat: They possess a cheerful, positive disposition.
- Witty and Ingenious: Quick-thinking and clever, always ready with a smart solution.
- Adaptable and Resourceful: Comfortable with change and skilled at navigating challenges.
- Grounded and Reliable: Thanks to the earth element, they’re less erratic than other monkeys—more stable, dependable, and pragmatic.
- Independent Yet Social: Earth Monkeys enjoy both teamwork and their own company, often thriving in leadership roles.
Career and Talents
Earth Monkeys are natural-born problem-solvers—entrepreneurial, innovative, and practical. They excel in roles requiring improvisation and social skill, such as business, design, technology, sales, and education.
Interpersonal Relationships
With their charm, wit, and loyalty, Earth Monkeys are fun friends and engaging partners. At times, they may be defensive or stubborn, but their sense of humor and optimism help smooth over conflicts.
Compatibility and Love Matches
According to Chinese astrology, Monkey natives pair best with certain signs and might want to be cautious with others.
- Best Matches: Rat, Dragon, and Snake. These signs complement the Monkey’s intelligence and dynamism.
- Challenging Matches: Tiger and Pig, due to contrasting temperaments.
Of course, personality and understanding matter more than zodiac matches, but many still enjoy consulting compatibility charts for fun.
Symbols, Colors, and Lucky Charms
Each zodiac sign comes with auspicious symbols and charms—especially important at New Year.
- Lucky Numbers: 3 and 9
- Lucky Color: Gold (symbolizing wealth and good luck)
- Lucky Flowers: Chrysanthemum, alluding to nobility and longevity
Many families display these symbols for a prosperous year.
Myths, Legends, and Anecdotes
Chinese New Year is steeped in stories. The legend of Nian, a monster repelled by red decorations and fireworks, underscores why these traditions persist. The Monkey King’s adventures are another perennial favorite, inspiring performances, parades, and paintings—particularly during any Monkey year.
In 1968, children may have been told tales of the clever Monkey King defeating demons or tricking ancient emperors, sparking their imaginations during the holiday.
Modern Relevance and Global Celebrations
The allure of the Monkey hasn’t faded. Whether in 1968 or today, Chinese communities globally celebrate the zodiac’s significance. Even beyond China, cities from New York to Sydney hold parades, performances, and public feasts marking the Chinese New Year.
For people born in 1968, their zodiac year remains a point of personal and family pride. Many wear jewelry or clothes featuring monkeys for luck, especially at milestone birthdays.
Enduring Impact on Daily Life
Though times change, the influence of the Chinese zodiac and New Year traditions remains strong. Birthday celebrations often refer to one’s animal sign, and important events—like weddings, business openings, or even moving house—might be timed to the lunar calendar, favoring auspicious dates.
Many people, especially older generations, consult their horoscope for guidance on career, health, finance, and relationships.
Conclusion
The Chinese New Year of 1968 marked the start of the Earth Monkey’s reign—a time characterized by adventure, ingenuity, and good cheer. Infused with profound traditions and rich symbolism, this year reflects both the enduring vitality of Chinese culture and the playful, clever spirit of the monkey itself. From lively festival streets to intimate family gatherings, the stories and customs of 1968 remind us of the power of renewal, optimism, and the timeless bonds of community.
FAQ
What date was Chinese New Year in 1968?
Chinese New Year in 1968 started on January 30, according to the traditional lunar calendar.
Which zodiac sign does 1968 belong to?
1968 is the Year of the Monkey in the Chinese zodiac. More specifically, it’s the year of the Earth Monkey.
What is unique about the Earth Monkey?
The Earth Monkey combines the cleverness and versatility of the Monkey with the practical, grounded qualities of the Earth element, creating individuals who are innovative but more stable and trustworthy than other Monkey types.
How does Chinese New Year differ each year?
The date of Chinese New Year shifts because it follows the lunar calendar, falling anywhere between late January and mid-February.
What traditions are associated with Chinese New Year?
Key traditions include family reunions, feasting, giving red envelopes, cleaning and decorating homes, lighting firecrackers, lion and dragon dances, and honoring ancestors.
Is the Monkey considered lucky in Chinese culture?
Yes, the Monkey is a lucky sign associated with intelligence, charm, and mischievous good fortune.
What are the best compatible signs for someone born in the Year of the Monkey?
According to tradition, best romantic or business matches for the Monkey are Rat, Dragon, and Snake.
What gifts or decorations would have been popular for children born in 1968?
Monkey-themed toys, gold ornaments, red envelopes, and zodiac charms featuring the Earth Monkey would be typical gifts to wish health and success.
Are there any special foods associated with the Year of the Monkey?
While all New Year feasts share certain dishes for luck, 1968 celebrations may have featured monkey-shaped pastries or dishes named with “monkey” motifs as playful references.
How is the Year of the Monkey remembered or celebrated today?
The Year of the Monkey remains a popular motif during Chinese New Year parades and home decorations. For those born in Monkey years, it’s a source of personal pride and often celebrated with themed birthday parties or keepsakes.
