Lunar New Year (AKA Chinese New Year) is February 5th, 2019, and this is the year of the pig. According to folklore, the pig is the 12th of the 12-year cycle of animals that appear in the zodiac related to the Chinese calendar.
According to legend, the pig was the last animal to arrive when the Jade Emperor called for the great meeting. Just as the emperor was about to call it a day, a small pig let out an oink and squeal. Apparently, the pig got hungry during the race, stopped to eat, then fell asleep.
If you are born in the year of the pig, you are considered good-tempered, kind-hearted, positive and loyal. Some of your weaknesses include being gullible, slow, and faltering. How true is this of anyone you know born in the year of the pig? We leave that for you to decide!
Food
When it comes to food, Chinese New Year has very particular items that people often eat during the celebration.
Noodles
This is a staple of Chinese New Year celebrations. The longer the noodle, the better, because noodles represent “long life.” Long beans are another example.
Dumplings
In Chinese, dumplings (饺子—jiǎo zi) sounds like 交子(jiāo zi). 交 (Jiāo) means “exchange” and 子(zi) is the midnight hours. Put together, jiāo zi is the exchange between the old and new year.
Fish
In Chinese, fish (鱼—yú) has the same pronunciation as 余, which means “surplus” or “extra.” Who wouldn’t want a little extra in the new year?!
Dim Sum
A popular breakfast or lunch (or brunch!) item. Traditionally eaten at restaurants with family members.
During this Chinese New Year, take the opportunity try a local eatery with friends and family. Find one near you by searching here:
