madameblogalot

We experienced lots of tradition during Chinese New Year. CNY is a fifteen day event which encompasses lots of family time and tradition. Families must shop early as nearly all stores and restaurants, including the coffee shops, close for about three days. Of course, Reunion Dinner is planned with leftovers in mind to get you through those three days. There are numerous tidbits to enjoy and snack on throughout the holiday as well.

Reunion Dinner takes place on New Year’s Eve. The whole family is reunited from all the places they have spread out to over the year. It is a joyous and festive occasion. We shared Reunion Dinner in the home of some friends. Another family came as well and brought along their Scottish guests, fresh from the airplane! We had the traditional fish and some shrimp and rice. Our other American friends also brought along a turkey!

Oranges are a sign of good luck as the word for orange sounds like the word for luck. When homes are visited, it is expected to bring along oranges to bless your host with.

The kids are keen to visit older family members as they receive blessings in the form of spoken words and ang pow (hong bao) packets with an even amount of money inside!

This is probably this kids favorite part, though ours didn’t mind partaking of all the tidbits and sweet drinks offered to them!

We had a great time learning about and participating in the local Chinese New Year traditions! My two nephews bought bicycles (for their future trips there) with their hong bao money and my daughter bought a bilingual bible complete with hanupinyin pronunciation and a pair of shoes.