Did you know that the seventh day of the Chinese New Year is considered “everybody’s birthday”? Today is the third day of the Lunar New Year which is a time for sons-in-laws to pay respects to their parents-in-law. In addition, families who’ve lost an immediate relative in the past three years will not be partying at other people’s homes tonight. Rather, the day is reserved for visiting cemeteries and remembering loved ones who are no longer on Earth. This tradition is practiced in China, as well as Taiwan, Vietnam, and other nations with a significant Chinese population. Here in the … Continue reading →

Lunar New Year festivities are already underway in Beijing. Massive firework displays, colorful parades and high-energy street parties kicked off the 15-day celebration. In the United States, the Year of the Dragon is ushered in at midnight and ends with the Lantern Festival on February 6th. To commemorate the holiday, make like the Chinese and get cleaning. People in China believe you should begin a new year with a fresh start. By purging unnecessary items from your home you decrease clutter and bring harmony and balance to your life. In addition, a deep-clean is thought to rid bad luck and … Continue reading →

With less than 48 hours until the official debut of the Year of the Dragon, many communities are getting a jump-start this weekend by hosting parades, festivals and firework displays. Chinese New Year is a festive holiday that celebrates family, friends and new beginnings. If you don’t live near a city that is commemorating the event with special activities, then host your own party. Gather the kids, hang up some red streamers and gold balloons, and then get busy in the kitchen whipping up some simple Chinese dishes, including: HOMEMADE FORTUNE COOKIES Ingredients: 1 egg white Dash of vanilla extract … Continue reading →