People in traditional Mongolian costumes celebrate Chinese New Year. [Photo/nmglyw.com.cn]

In ancient times, Chinese New Year, or Spring Festival, was called "white festival" in Mongolian as pure white milk-made food was served for the festival. Similar to the Han nationality, ethnic Mongolian people celebrate the festival with dumplings and firecrackers, while some unique customs and traditions are still honored. For example, ethnic Mongolians slaughter, prepare and eat lamb at family reunions at New Year's Eve. They also hold rituals to honor their ancestors at New Year's Eve.

After a year of hard work, the people will celebrate the festival with singing and dancing as a good conclusion to the year and to express their wishes for a promising year to come. Spending Spring Festival on the grasslands is the best way to experience the traditions of ethnic Mongolians.