ELI5: Explain Like I'm 5

Egg of Li Chun

Okay kiddo, have you ever heard of the Chinese zodiac and how each year is represented by a different animal, like the year of the rat, horse or dog? Well, in Chinese culture, the first day of the lunar calendar year is a very important day called Li Chun.

Now, when Li Chun comes around, it is believed that the energy of the new year is at its strongest and everyone wants to capture some of that positive energy to start their year right. One way to do this is by placing an egg on its end on Li Chun day (which usually falls around February 4)!

Why an egg, you ask? Well, according to Chinese folklore, eggs symbolize new beginnings, growth, and prosperity. When you stand an egg upright on this auspicious day, it is believed to bring good luck, success, and fortune for the rest of the year.

But here's the trick, my dear little one. Balancing an egg on its end is not an easy feat! It requires patience, a steady hand, and a lot of practice. Some people even say that only a few lucky folks with a special kind of energy are capable of performing this magic trick successfully.

Overall, the egg of Li Chun is a fun and meaningful tradition that many Chinese people practice to bring a little more luck and joy into their lives. So, don't forget to flex those balancing skills and give it a try next Li Chun day!