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 United States, public celebrations commemorating Chinese New Year typically focus on upbeat, festive features, such as Day 7’s big birthday bash. Even if you are not Chinese, the tradition gives you a reason to let loose and make merry. If you have kids, getting into the celebratory spirit and marking “everyone’s birthday” with special treats and fun activities is a great way to add spice to a dreary winter day.
When planning for a Chinese New Year’s birthday party consider the following tips:
1. Invite grandparents or other elderly loved ones. In China, the eldest relatives are seen as leaders and role models. Consequently, they should be honored during the party with small favors, such as candles or notes of thanks for all the contributions they’ve made to the family.
2. Decorate with paper lanterns, red streamers and other symbols of good luck and prosperity, such as bamboo. The treasured wood also represents rebirth, unity and compatibility.
3. Prepare traditional holiday foods, including noodles, which symbolize long life. Other good luck dishes include chicken, fish, dumplings, and steamed rice pudding. For dessert serve fortune cookies or oranges and tangerines which represent sweetness and prosperity.
4. Enjoy games, such as Pin the Tail on the Dragon or hand out Chinese coloring calendars, so kids can learn more about the animals that comprise the Chinese zodiac.