Elecrow Unveils “扶摇直上 – Touch the Sky” Chinese New Year Campaign

“大鹏一日同风起，扶摇直上九万里。” —— 李白, Li Bai《上李邕》

“Spread my wings and fly away,

I see me running through that open door.”

The year 2024 marks the Year of the Chinese Dragon, known as Loong in the Chinese zodiac, or shēngxiào. To celebrate the coming Chinese New Year, Elecrow launches “扶摇直上 – Touch the Sky” Chinese New Year campaign from Feb. 1 - Feb. 29, 2024, offering a wide range of products with the characteristics of Loong. But what is the Chinese zodiac? What’s the symbolic meaning of Loong in Chinese culture? Go ahead, let’s explore it further.

The Origin of the Chinese Zodiac

In Western astrology, your constellation is determined by the date of your birthday on the calendar. However, according to the Chinese zodiac, your shǔxiàng, or animal sign, is assigned based on the year of your birth.

Among the various myths explaining these animal signs and their sequence, the enduring tale is that of the Great Race. According to the legend, the Jade Emperor, also known as Yù Dì, the Ruler of the Heavens, sought a way to measure time. To achieve this, he organized a race where the first twelve animals to cross the river would secure a place on the zodiac calendar in the order of their arrival.

The rat, quick-witted and eager, rose with the sun for an early start. Along the way to the river, the rat encountered the horse, the tiger, and the ox. Being small and not an adept swimmer, the rat sought assistance from the larger animals. While the tiger and horse declined, the compassionate ox agreed to carry the rat across. However, just as they approached the other side, the rat leaped off the ox's head, claiming first place. The ox came in second, followed closely by the powerful tiger. The rabbit, too small to confront the current, skillfully hopped across stones and logs, securing fourth place.

Subsequently, the Loong, capable of flying directly across, paused to aid creatures she encountered along the way. After the dragon came the horse, galloping across the river. Yet, as the horse reached the opposite bank, the snake slithered by, startling the horse and allowing the snake to claim sixth place. The Jade Emperor observed the sheep, the monkey, and the rooster working collaboratively on a raft, pushing it through the weeds. Upon successfully crossing, the trio decided to accord eighth place to the sheep, the most comforting and harmonious among them, followed by the monkey and the rooster. The dog followed, scrambling onto the shore. Despite being a proficient swimmer, the dog frolicked in the water for so long that it only managed to secure eleventh place. The pig claimed the final spot, having become hungry and taking a break to eat and nap before waddling across the finish line. Consequently, each year is associated with one of these animals in the following order: Rat, Ox, Tiger, Rabbit, Loong, Snake, Horse, Sheep, Monkey, Rooster, Dog, and Pig.

The Symbolic Meaning of Loong in Chinese Culture

In Chinese culture, Loong is revered as a symbol of power, excellence, and good luck, often portrayed as a wise and kind creature. Over the past thousands of years, the Loong has held a central place in Chinese culture, its origins dating back to early Chinese civilization through mythology, folklore, and religious beliefs. As beings believed to govern natural phenomena such as rain, storms, and water, and associated with the life-giving properties of water and the fertility of the land, Loong has become an emblem of strength and good fortune. Moreover, they also stand for balance, harmony, and the natural order of the universe.

As a representation of auspiciousness, vitality, and the potent force of nature, Loong remains a revered and beloved symbol in Chinese society, reflecting the cultural continuity and timeless relevance of historical symbols.

Elecrow “扶摇直上 – Touch the Sky” Chinese New Year Campaign

Gifts offered in the campaign are meticulously designed by Elecrow, each showcasing distinct characteristics of Chinese culture. Each item is imbued with our heartfelt wishes for the approaching new year. Let's have a glimpse of these exquisite gifts.

Loong-Tale Marker

Explore a set of four markers adorned with diverse patterns. The first marker features the auspicious Chinese characters "龙年大吉" (Wishing you great prosperity in the Year of the Loong), embodying our wishes for an auspicious Year of the Dragon. The marker combines different fonts of "福" (good luck), creating a harmonious composition to extend our warm wishes for a joyous Chinese New Year. The second marker showcases a picturesque scene with traditional Chinese eaves, lanterns, and the greeting "新年快乐" (Happy New Year). Notably, the intricate pattern of the dragon adds a touch of magnificence.

Acrylic Prosperity Disc

Elevate your surroundings with a collection of 12 Acrylic Prosperity Discs, each adorned with auspicious Chinese characters. "恭喜发财" (Wish You to be a Rich Man), "吉祥如意" (Good Fortune as One Wishes), and "新春快乐" (Happy New Year) grace these discs, symbolizing prosperity, good fortune, and joy for the upcoming year. These elegant discs not only serve as decorative pieces but also carry our sincere blessings for a prosperous and harmonious new year.

To enhance the traditional significance, these acrylic discs will be delicately placed inside a Loong-shaped red envelope. In keeping with the Chinese custom of giving red envelopes, this serves as a heartfelt expression of our good wishes for your prosperity and well-being.

In addition to the aforementioned gifts, an indispensable inclusion in our campaign is the Chinese New Year Card. Furthermore, we present an array of exciting offerings, including the Raspberry Pi 5, CrowView, CrowVision, Elecrow Keyboard & Mouse Combo, TrackFinder, Loong-Dream Throw Pillow, U-Shaped Pillow, Maker Mouse Pad, Cell Phone Stand, Memo Galaxy, and CharmStix - Sticker. To add to the festivities, we are delighted to introduce coupons with no minimum spend, offering you a delightful shopping experience. Explore the Gift Range Chart below for a comprehensive overview.

Gift Range Chart for Elec-Product Orders

Gift Range Chart for Manufacturing Orders

Final

From Feb. 1 - Feb. 29, 2024, be sure to join us in celebrating the Chinese New Year Party. Immerse yourself in the richness of Chinese culture with these thoughtfully crafted gifts, as we celebrate the spirit of the festive season together.