Taoist Holidays

Taoism is not only an organized religion, but is also a philosophy. The meaning of Tao (pronounced "Dow") is hard to describe. The word in English is usually translated as "path" or "the way". One description of Tao given by the Reform Taoist Congregation web site helps illuminate the meaning and states that Tao "refers to a power which envelops, surrounds, and flows through all things living and non-living. The Tao regulates natural processes and nourishes balance in the Universe. It embodies the harmony of opposites."

Believed to have been founded in China by philosopher Lao-Tse between 604-531 BCE, Taoism was adopted as that state's religion in 440 CE. State support for Taoism in China ended in 1911 and much of the Taoist heritage was abolished and destroyed during the rise of Communism in the 1960's Cultural Revolution. A greater amount of religious tolerance has been restored in recent years. Today Taoism is one of the five religions recognized by the People's Republic of China but is controlled by the state. While the practice of Taoism may have been squelched during different time periods, what has been undeniable is the effect Taoism has had (and continues to have) on Chinese culture. Much of China's traditions, rituals, folklore, and cultural aspects in general are rooted in Taosim. For instance, the Yin-Yang, often associated with Chinese culture, is a Taoist symbol. Today Taoism is most popular in areas with high concentrations of Chinese people. It thrives in Taiwan and is also popular in Southeast Asia and Chinese populated areas of the West.

Nature, ancient spirits, and deities play a large role in the holidays of the polytheistic Taoist religion. There are many festivals and important days recognized throughout the Taoist year, most of which are related to gods or natural events such as solstices. The birthday of founder Lao-Tse is considered one of the most important holidays. Another popular celebration is the Chinese New Year (occurring in February on the Gregorian calendar) and is marked in communities around the world. One part of the New Year's celebration (and common to other Taoist festivities) is the performing of the Dragon or Lion Dance. The dance, where participants hold a long, snake shaped, colorful dragon figure above head on poles and cause it do dip, swirl, and move around as they dance is a well known part of Chinese festivities.

In addition to festivals and celebrations, the Taoist holiday calendar (lunar in nature) includes monthly vegetarian or fasting days. Rituals associated with celebrations include bowing to an alter (either in the home or in a temple), the burning of incense, fortune-telling, and street parades.

Vegetarian/Fasting Days:

These occur monthly throughout the Chinese Lunar Calendar on the 1st, 8th, 14th, 15th, 18th, 23rd, 24th, 28th, 29th, and 30th lunar days of a given month. Additionally, all Festival Days are fasting days.

Chinese New Year:

Date varies by year, falls between January 21st and February 20th on the Gregorian calendar. The Chinese New Year's celebration starts on the first day the new moon appears in a new year and ends 14 days later.

Popular Festival Days According to Chinese Lunar Calendar: