Fireworks are shot on at midnight to traditionally scare away a monster at night and save the people.  Therefore, the next day the Chinese say “Congratulations,” for surviving the  threat of the monster.

Fireworks were outlawed more many years as extravagant and unsafe. Now with their new found wealth and freedom, Chinese go firecracker crazy.  Not just on this night. Eight days later, the money god is supposed to be going through, so business shoot them off again ALL DAY to attract his attention.  Ear muffs are in order.

Ningbo, China

Beijing, China