Happy Chinese New Year!

Chinese New Year is all about symbolism. The color, shape, size, flavors, names of dishes – everything – is imbued with wishes for prosperity and long life. February 3 is the first day of the year of the “golden rabbit,” which is supposed to be good for wealth.

Don't forget! Put the Chinese New Year on your calendar.

If you’re hosting or attending a Chinese New Year party, here are some foods and items that are musts.

Red envelopes: Red envelopes are for monetary gifts, typically for children, as a gesture for wishing them a long life. The amount should be an even number, such as $6 or $8, for luck.

Decorations: Asian markets will offer wall hangings, lanterns, paddle drums and other tchotchkes that are red and gold, and have good luck sayings or dragons on them. It’s the Year of the Rabbit, so be sure to get something with rabbits on them.

New clothes: People wear new clothes to signify new beginnings. 

Mandarin oranges or tangerines: The golden-orange color and squat-round shape signify wealth and prosperity.

Chinese dumplings (jiaozi or potstickers): The bulbous shape resembles ancient gold ingots, which symbolize money and prosperity. 

Whole fish: Serving whole fish represents prosperity and good beginnings.

Noodles: Serving noodles represents long life.

Nian gao (New Year’s Cake): This very sticky cake must be gently seared in a pan to soften. It symbolizes a wish for longevity.

Clams: These signify wealth, because of their resemblance in shape to bouillon.

Chinese New Year Shopping List