The origins of the lion dance are ancient and layered with mythology. One popular legend connects it directly to the story of Nian — the same beast that firecrackers were invented to repel. According to this version, the villagers dressed as a lion and frightened Nian away, establishing the tradition of the dance as a protective ritual.

Other accounts trace the lion dance to the Han Dynasty, when lions were brought to the imperial court as tribute from Central Asian kingdoms. Since lions were exotic and awe-inspiring creatures unknown to most Chinese people, their image became associated with power, courage, and divine protection — qualities invoked through the dance.

While often grouped together, the lion dance (舞狮) and dragon dance (舞龙) are distinct traditions with different forms and meanings. The lion dance typically involves two performers: one handles the elaborate decorated head with its blinking eyes and moveable mouth, the other forms the body and tail under the flowing cloth. The performance is highly athletic, requiring acrobatic skill, precise coordination, and months of training.

The dragon dance involves a much larger team — typically nine or more performers — each holding a pole that supports a section of the dragon's serpentine body. The dragon is woven through intricate patterns and spirals by the team moving in fluid coordination. While the lion brings luck to specific locations (businesses, homes), the dragon's winding path through a community blesses the whole area.

One of the most important moments in a traditional lion dance performance is "choi cheng" (採青) — literally "plucking the greens." A bundle of leafy green vegetables (typically lettuce, as the Cantonese word for lettuce sounds like "growing fortune") is suspended at height or placed on the ground along with a red envelope.

The lion approaches cautiously, investigates the offering playfully, then dramatically "eats" the greens — chewing elaborately before spitting the leaves out in a shower over the audience, spreading the luck and prosperity to all gathered. The red envelope inside is kept by the troupe. This ritual is especially sought after by businesses at New Year, as it is believed to bring commercial success for the year ahead.