Celebrating Chinese New Year

The New Year is almost here, are you ready to celebrate? Each year I look forward to the pop-pop-popping of firecrackers, the riot of drums and colors of my favorite Lion Dancers and all the yummy treats at the bakeries on Wentworth Avenue.

If you are like me and just can't wait, try one of these titles for a quick, traditional Chinese New Year activity that you can do at home:

In Celebrating Chinese Festivals, you can find a story of how Nian defeated the Xi monster and other stories for celebrating throughout the rest of the year. Be sure to try out the sweet dumpling recipe.

Decorate your house with spring couplets and riddles. Here is one from High on A Hill, "In summer, in his suit of green, / He catches insects on the wing. / The north wind blows him off the scene / But he'll be in the swim, come spring."  Can you guess the answer? I'll give you a hint -- if he could talk, he would wish you a "hoppy" new year!

Make your own Lai See, or red envelopes, with the easy to follow instructions in Paper Crafts for Chinese New Year, or try out the firecracker decorations. Now, you are ready to party.

Wishing you and your family good fortune! Happy New Year!