What Is the Third Day of the Chinese New Year?
The Third Day of the Chinese New Year marks another stage in the traditional Spring Festival celebrations. It is known by several names, including Chì Kǒu Rì (赤口日), which translates to “Red Mouth Day”, or Chì Gǒu Rì (赤狗日), meaning “Red Dog Day”. This day holds particular cultural significance rooted in ancient Chinese folklore and calendrical beliefs.
Traditional observance on this day primarily involves avoiding social interactions and staying at home. This custom is based on the belief that the Third Day is particularly prone to disagreements and quarrels. While not universally observed as a public holiday, it retains its cultural importance in various Chinese communities globally, notably in Macau and Taiwan where it is a public holiday.
History and Origins of the Third Day of the Chinese New Year
The origins of the Third Day’s unique customs are deeply embedded in Chinese mythology and ancient calendrical practices. The term “Chì Kǒu” or “Red Mouth” is associated with speech and potential conflict. It is believed that a person’s words spoken on this day carry a higher risk of leading to arguments or misunderstandings.
Furthermore, the Third Day is traditionally linked to the “God of Blazing Wrath” (赤狗, Chì Gǒu). This deity is believed to bring misfortune, conflict, and bad luck. Consequently, historical practices evolved to minimise activities that could invoke this adverse influence, leading to the custom of staying home and refraining from social visits. This tradition serves as a form of appeasement or avoidance of potential negative interactions.
How the Third Day of the Chinese New Year Is Celebrated
Celebrations on the Third Day of the Chinese New Year differ from the boisterous gatherings of the preceding days. The predominant custom is to remain within the family home. This is intended to prevent arguments or conflicts that are traditionally associated with Chì Kǒu Rì.
Many people use this day for rest after the busy first two days of celebrations. Others may choose to visit temples to offer prayers to various deities and ancestors. The burning of paper offerings is also a common practice, intended to bring peace and good fortune for the coming year.
Third Day of the Chinese New Year in Taiwan
In Taiwan, the Third Day of the Chinese New Year is a public holiday. Families often spend this day quietly at home or engage in more personal observances. Ancestral worship is a significant practice, with families visiting temples or performing rituals at home to honour deceased relatives and seek blessings. The tradition of avoiding external social calls to prevent quarrels is widely observed.
Third Day of the Chinese New Year in Macau
Macau also observes the Third Day as a public holiday. Similar to Taiwan, the day is typically spent with immediate family members. Many residents choose to visit local temples or shrines to offer prayers and light incense. The emphasis remains on a calm and reflective day, consciously avoiding any activities that could lead to dispute or discord, in line with the Chì Kǒu Rì tradition.
When Is the Third Day of the Chinese New Year?
The Third Day of the Chinese New Year always falls on the third day of the first lunar month in the traditional Chinese lunisolar calendar. As the Chinese New Year itself is a moveable feast based on this lunar calendar, its corresponding date on the Gregorian calendar varies each year.
Typically, the Third Day of the Chinese New Year occurs in late January or early February. For instance, if Chinese New Year’s Day falls on 10 February in a given year, the Third Day of the Chinese New Year would then be observed on 12 February. This fixed position within the lunar calendar means it consistently follows the first two days of the New Year celebrations.
Third Day of the Chinese New Year Key Facts
| Fact | Detail |
|---|---|
| Type | Public Holiday / Observance |
| Date | Variable (third day of the first lunar month) |
| Countries | 2 countries (public holiday in most) |
| Also known as | Chì Kǒu Rì (赤口日), Red Mouth Day, Chì Gǒu Rì (赤狗日), Red Dog Day |
| Calendar system | Chinese lunisolar calendar |
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the Third Day of the Chinese New Year?
The Third Day of the Chinese New Year, also known as Chì Kǒu Rì or Red Mouth Day, is the third day of celebrations in the Chinese lunar calendar. Traditional belief holds that this day is prone to arguments and conflict.
Are there any specific traditions on the Third Day of the Chinese New Year?
On the Third Day, it is customary for people to stay at home and avoid visiting friends or family to prevent potential disputes. Many also visit temples to offer prayers and burn paper offerings for deities and ancestors.
Is the Third Day of the Chinese New Year a public holiday?
The Third Day of the Chinese New Year is a public holiday in Macau and Taiwan. In mainland China and other regions, while traditions may be observed, it is typically not a designated public holiday.