elfing it

Chinese New Year

February 7, 2008

Chinese New Year is recognized on the Lunar calendar (hence it is also known as Lunar New Year).  It is celebrated on the first day of Lunar February until the fifteen of February. 

This old Asian tradition is still celebrated today with great intensity, especially in China, Hong Kong, Taiwan and Vietnam (Tết).  Visit Hong Kong during new years, and you will witness a city transformed into a giant carnival of sorts. Basically, in February,  Hong Kong looks a lot like Las Vegas on steroids. It's that insane (but in a good way).  

The story of the zodiac animals - according to one ancient legend, Buddha called for the gathering of animals on Chinese New Years and twelve came. He decided to honor them by assigning each animal to a year. He also announced that people born in each animal's year will carry some of their traits. Though not the sexiest of the Zodiac animals, the Rat does have some great traits.  People born in the years of the Rat tend to be leaders, pioneers, and conquerors. They are known to be charming, passionate, charismatic, practical and hardworking. (via InfoPlease)

I like this other description of the rat. 

They are thrifty, but can be generous with people they love, and enjoy acquiring possessions. Rats are usually very successful. 

How well does that describe the rat?  To find out what your zodiac sign is, click here. (via MudanBoutique)  

 

It is a tradition in some Asian cultures to give children red envelopes filled with money for Lunar New Year. (Some unlucky ones get candy.) Kids treat this red envelope exchange very seriously, so do give well, but not too well as it can be taken as pompous.

It is also common for adults to give and receive red envelopes, but they usually contain only a single dollar. It doesn't mean they're cheap.  

Or broke.

It is a gesture to wish you wealth, luck and prosperity for the new year.

This set of 20 li xi is $1.75.

 

Jade is a well-regarded gemstone in Asian culture. During Chinese New Year, one can find at many businesses jade money trees to ensure wealth (tree) and luck (jade). 

Jade has lived a very long and prosperous life.  This gemstone existed through many Chinese empires and was once so valued, artisans were only able to supply to the demands of emperors and their family members.  Jade's significance in Asia can be compared to the Western view of gold and diamonds. Today, Jade is still respected, though not as difficult to obtain (unless it is an antique, which can auction for enormous amounts of money). 

Jade symbolizes good and beauty. It was also described from ancient Chinese text to encompass benevolence, loyalty, wisdom, courage and integrity. This jade pendant necklace has the traditional pendant but nicely modernized with a silk cord. A no-brainer gift for someone born in the Year of the Rat (click here for zodiac sign chart). 

Check this out. It's only $16. Unbelievable deal or what? 

String lights, one of the best tricks for creating a festive atmosphere without a whole lot of work.  Simply hang them from small trees, string them on walkways, or suspend a cluster from the ceiling, and poof, instant mood lighting.  This 12' light string holds ten red paper lanterns printed with a light on dark bamboo design. At Wrapables for $24.