Celebrating Lunar New Year with Zach Han.

The Lunar New Year is a celebration with deep cultural significance filled with traditions to gain good fortune. For example, the tradition of eating dumplings is believed to bring prosperity in the new year. Every year the actual date varies, as it is dependent upon the new moon and the sun, usually falling between January 21st and February 20th. Also, there is a Chinese Zodiac associated with every year, and people born within the year are believed to have the traits associated with the Chinese Zodiac. This year is the Ox, which represents diligence, dependence, strength, and determination with lucky colors of yellow, white, and green. Find out your Chinese Zodiac here.

Let’s learn about how one of our operators in the region celebrates this holiday:

What is your favorite memory from a prior celebration?

“It was the joy and the fun that our many cousins came together and all of us (~10 to 12 kids) played together in the backyard at my grandparents’ place. They were really blissful and carefree days.”

What does Lunar New Year mean to you?

“Lunar New Year mean a new beginning, to start afresh, and also leaving the not-so-good behind.  
LNY also means a time of gatherings of family and friends, certainly including the fun and joy!”

Do you have any family traditions? 

“My family always start our first LNY day with eating butter cake + having hot chocolate drink. Not sure how it started but it became a must-have to symbolize our first gathering in our very own home.”

Fun Facts

• The Festival causes the world’s largest annual migration
• The world’s biggest annual fireworks usage is during Lunar New Year
• Each Lunar New Year dessert has a special meaning(s)