Chinese New Year is fast approaching and will begin on January 26 of this year, 2009. The most important of all Chinese holidays, Chinese New Year begins on the new moon and ends 15 days later during the full moon. For the Chinese, the year will be number 4707 and this annum will be associated with the ox of the Chinese zodiac. Babies who are born during the year of the ox are said to exhibit the traits of an ox throughout their life. On the positive side, ox people are well organized, dependable, loyal, head-strong, reliable, logical, and creative. On the negative side, ox people can be stubborn, narrow-minded, unemotional, and unsociable at times.

For the Chinese, the mark of the New Year is much more profound than just a night of partying. Festivities for the Chinese during the time of the New Year include family reunions, time off from work to reflect, religious ceremonies, honoring ancestors, and of course, celebrating. During the celebrations, red envelopes are given to children with lucky money coins inside. It is customary to wear red clothing too, which is said to drive away bad luck. The fireworks that are so customary during Chinese New Year were originally used to frighten away negative forces, but today are seen more as a joyous display. During the fifteenth and last day of Chinese New Year, people eat rice dumplings and candles are lit outside homes. The candles are said to help guide lost spirits back home. The last day is also known as the “Lantern Festival” and many children and their parents walk through the streets carrying beautiful and colorful Chinese lanterns. Sometimes competitions are held to see who created the most attractive lanterns. This festival marks the end of Chinese New Year. If you are not Chinese, try going to a Chinatown in your city to experience Chinese New Year. It is truly a special time and can be a richly rewarding cultural experience.