Sunday February 10, 2013 marks the beginning of Year of the Snake, one of the 12 revolving symbols of the lunar calendar years.  The symbol is considered to have an influence on a child’s personality.

Aaron gave a detailed explanation of the mainland China traditions and Dong counterpointed the variations seen on Taiwan.  In both areas, the New Year is a big event for families with traditions associated with not only the day but for two weeks thereafter – a Spring Festival. Aaron said  “Everything shuts down” in China. Don’t plan to do any business there” at that time of year. Variations occur for many countries in Asia.

Traditions have come from the similarity of the sounds of the words in Chinese, particularly the word for money or wealth.  Aaron said they are not bashful about money, wanting wealth and a surplus in the year.  The traditional expression gong xi fa cai means “congratulations, get rich.”

To encourage good fortune in the New Year, the tradition is not to sweep – might sweep out good fortune, but to be very clean of person and attire with new clothes to encourage the wealth of the New Year.

The word for “arrive” and ” wealth” are similar – so the symbol for wealth is hung upside down on the front door of houses to encourage wealth to arrive in the New Year.  A traditional monster (Nian) is afraid of red so signs, lanterns and decorations are in red to ward off the monster. The word for “fish” also rhymes with wealth so it is traditional to have fish meals.

Special foods compliment the family and social events.  Dumplings are for day #5 after the New Year.  Sticky rice cakes are also a tradition – like family that should “stick” together.

Entertainment for the occasion includes the large Lion and Dragon dances and massive chaotic fireworks displays that can go on for hours and lanterns.

Red envelopes, typically with new bills are handed from the older to younger generations.

Overall Aaron said there is an” embarrassment of food”  and much pressure to partake from family and friends, even if you are satiated.  This sentiment bridges the cultures reminding me of my Jewish Grandmother, my Italian friend’s mother and another friend’s Mexican mother.

Aaron will be the Master of Ceremonies at a Lantern Festival at Santa Anita Mall, February 23rd, 2013.