Chinese New Year begins on the New Moon according to the lunar calendar and ends on a full Moon two weeks later. Dr. Larry Shyu, past president of the Chinese Cultural Association of New Brunswick and Professor Emeritus of History at the University of New Brunswick says there is also a practical reason for the length of the celebration.
"In the old days, travel was difficult and time-consuming. Family members were supposed to visit all relatives during the New Year."
A colourful Lantern Festival down the middle of a village, town or city usually marks the end of the celebration.
FOOD
Dr. Shyu says food is an integral part of Chinese New Year celebrations.
"A big country with a dense population, the Chinese are obsessed with food. The New Year dinner varies with the financial status of the family. At the minimum level, most Chinese families would prepare dumplings on this special occasion. Other dishes would symbolize prosperity."
Those dishes would include a whole fish. By keeping its head and tail, a family would ensure its good fortune at the beginning and the end of the year. There would also be a dish including lettuce which symbolizes growing wealth. Many also serve a dish of black moss, a type of algae. And for those hoping for a long life, there is a dish of long uncut noodles.
CUSTOMS
Dr. Shyu says there are also many Chinese New Year traditions to follow.
"An old custom is a thorough cleaning of one's house to welcome the New Year. Many rural families would prepare an offering to the 'Kitchen God'. This is based on the belief that he would take his annual leave of the absence during the New Year. If he is sent off in satisfaction, he will return to the family kitchen with blessings."
Other customs dictate that there would be no cleaning on the day of the New Year, including washing one's hair which would mean washing out one's fortune. Children often receive a little red envelope filled with money. The red packets are decorated with gold writing and symbolize good fortune for the coming New Year. Red is important because it denotes good luck.
YEAR of the OX
Dr. Shyu says the Year of the Ox is about hard work. It is a year good for agriculture, farming and gardens. He says for those born in the Year of the Ox and Year of the Tiger, it is a good time for relationships and career development. Real estate investments are best. However for those born in the Year of the Dragon, they should be careful with their money.
'Gung Hei Fat Choy' (Congratulations and Prosperity) to all.
