The Chinese New Year begins today with the Year of the Dragon! The new year is an occasion for family members to reunite and welcome the year ahead with a variety of customs, rituals, cultural events and of course, food. The celebration, which lasts for 15 days, focuses on different traditions, customs and mythical beliefs. Learn a bit about how each day is celebrated below.

• Day 1: The welcoming of the gods of the heavens and earth. Some people do not eat meat on this day to ensure long and happy lives.
• Day 2: The Chinese pray to their gods and ancestors. It is also believed to be the birthday of all dogs, so they are treated and fed extremely well.
• Day3: The Chinese believe they should not visit with friends or family, instead, they visit the Temple of Wealth and have their futures told.
• Day 4: Son-in-laws pay their respect to their parent-in-laws.
• Day 5: The day to eat dumplings, which are thought to bring wealth and prosperity. It is bad luck to visit family or friends.
• Day 6: A day to visit friends and family.
• Day 7: The day in which every Chinese turns a year older, the common man’s birthday. Also, it is believed one should eat fish for abundance, and noodles for longevity.
• Day 8: A family dinner is hosted on this day in honor of the Jade Emperor. The holiday season is over and the Chinese return to work.
• Day 9: The traditional birthday of the Jade Emperor, offerings are made to the god.
• Days 10, 11 and 12: On these days, the Chinese visit with friends and family and host them for large meals.
• Day 13: This day is dedicated to The Chinese God of War and Success, Guan Yu. They eat simple rice congee and mustard greens to cleanse.
• Day 14: This day is dedicated to preparing for the Lantern Festival.
• Day 15: This night is celebrated as the Lantern Festival. The lanterns are used to guide the spirits back home. It is common to eat rice dumplings and tangerines for prosperity.