What superstitions do you believe in this Chinese New Year?

Fireworks, chores and red envelopes, oh my!

With the signs of the Chinese New Year upon us, eight Shanghai residents share the rituals that they follow to ensure a good Year of the Rabbit.

1. Peng Bin

Age: 25
From: Hunan Province
Years in Shanghai: Three
Occupation: Freelance writer

During the first day of Chinese New Year, I don't take any medicine -- even if it is something I have been taking for a while, or even if I am sick. The things that you do that first day will set your fortune for the rest of the year -- if you eat anything like medicine, you may curse yourself with bad health.

2. Da Yong

Age: 20
From: Anhui Province
Years in Shanghai: Three
Occupation: Hairdresser

I don’t believe in any New Year superstitions. Maybe they are for older generations, but for me and my friends, we don’t follow any of those things -- we have other things to think about. We are a different generation.

3. Jiang Jia

Age: 45
From: Jiangsu Province
Years in Shanghai: More than 20
Occupation: Fruit vendor

Maybe this is not quite a superstition, but I wish my friends and relatives health and prosperity for the New Year. I always make sure to say nice things and avoid saying non-auspicious things, because bad talk brings bad luck. Sorry for such a humble response -- I’m just a humble person!

4. Xiao Tong

Age: 21
From: Hunan Province
Years in Shanghai: Less than two
Occupation: Baker

During the Chinese New Year -- and afterward as well -- I do not ask for any money from anybody. If somebody owes me money, I will not ask for that money back, unless it is at least 30 days before Chinese New Year. After that, the debt should be forgiven. This way, your luck with money will stay strong for the next year. If you ask for money, you will lose money that year.