TAIPEI (TVBS News) — As the Lunar New Year approaches, many Taiwanese are fervently preparing for the festivities. However, recent years have sparked online debate suggesting the declining "festive spirit" of the Spring Festival, attributed to the nation’s increasing trend towards smaller families.
Traditionally, many Taiwanese return to their hometowns for New Year customs such as the Lunar New Year reunion dinner, visiting friends and family, and going to their maternal family’s home on the second day of the New Year.
Yet, as one online user shared on a social media forum, perceptions of the festive spirit may differ from person to person as each individual’s memories of the Spring Festival may vary. The discussion has prompted the question: "What is the 'memory of festive spirit?'" Older generations may reminisce about the ubiquitous sound of firecrackers during the New Year or purchasing seasonal goods and sweets on Dihua Street.
However, times have evolved, and many now observe changes in traditions. People are increasingly focusing on their phones instead of engaging in traditional dining and conversation. Furthermore, there's a growing trend of opting for travel abroad rather than partaking in the once-cherished practice of traditional holiday cooking.
The most widely agreed-upon point is the reduction in family size. Online users attributed the dwindling festive spirit to the shrinking scale of family reunion dinners due to smaller family units. Some online users shared their sentiments, lamenting, "Family reunions appear to be losing vibrancy due to a smaller number of families!"
