Usually people in Shanghai are not very fond of moving. However, since the 1990s, a large number of residents have begun to move. As a result, the residents from block to block have joyfully moved to the newly-established dwelling areas. As more and more families begin to move, a number of procedures and ceremonies have been gradually developed, which are followed by one after another. In consequence, unique conventions of moving have been developed out of ancient traditions. Some of them, to some extent, make sense.
Farewell Banquets
When people decide to leave their old houses, they tend to host a banquet, to which the neighbors are invited. Such occasions are known as farewell banquets, which can be either complicated or simple. Generally, the banquets are held for two reasons, namely, to say goodbye to the neighbors and to acknowledge what the neighbors have done to help in the past years. As a result, the banquets are very warm and touching.
Setting off Firecrackers
Usually the moving family will set off fireworks when they are about to leave the old house. On the one hand, this is to make it a festive occasion to move. On the other hand, the family intends to bid farewell to the neighbors by means of the loud sound of the firecrackers. In the meantime, firecrackers are also set off when the family arrives at their new house, as if to say hello to the new neighbors.
Kindling Coal Briquettes in the Stove
Before the furniture and other stuff are moved into the new house, a stove in which coal briquettes are burning briskly has to be placed in every corner of the house. Some people put such a stove inside the house the day before they move in. On the next day, they will again burn the briquettes brilliantly and then light the corners inside the house with the stove. However, it is very difficult to find coal-briquette stoves now.
Holding a Bamboo Pole
For some families, the first thing they move into the new house is a bamboo pole. Since one joint of the bamboo pole is higher than another, the pole embodies people's wish for such life and work as will hence always get better. Then the pole is followed by large pieces of furniture, then small pieces, finally expensive clothing and other valuables. All the stuff enters the new house in an orderly way.