Chinese New Year celebrations involve a lot of eating. Much like numbers, foods have very specific meanings to the Chinese. Foods eaten during the festivities are chosen based on how they represent luck, longevity and success.
The word for Fish in Chinese sounds like the word surplus. Whole fish is a staple dish at a New Year's dinner because it is believed if you have saved a lot during the current year, you will save even more the next year. Longevity noodles are also eaten during the new year, for well, longevity. The length of the noodle symbolizes a long life.
For something a bit sweeter, oranges are eaten because they represent good fortune. Orange in Chinese sounds like the word success, another reason why they are consumed during the new year. May this year bring many unique experiences your way!
Happy Year of the Monkey!
-DTE
Photo Credit: Chinese New Year In.
