Lucky Foods for Your Chinese New Year Feast

Alright, gather 'round for a tale about the grandest party in China – Chinese New Year, also known as the Spring Festival! This celebration isn't just a one-night shindig; it's a cultural extravaganza that's been rocking for over 3500 years.

So, when does this epic party kick off, you ask? Well, it's like this: the date of Chinese New Year dances to the beat of the lunar calendar, grooving to the second new moon after the winter solstice on 21st December. That means you'll find this bash anywhere between 21st January and 20th February on your regular calendar.

Now, let me take you on a journey through the ages. Imagine, over 3500 years ago during the Shang Dynasty, they kicked off Chinese New Year with some serious sacrificial rituals – you know, praying for that top-notch harvest. Fast forward to the Tang Dynasty, and we've got dragon and lion dances, fireworks lighting up the sky, and everyone having a blast at lantern shows. These traditions kept evolving, embracing all sorts of cool stuff in the modern era, and guess what? They've gone global, spreading their infectious vibe worldwide.

But before we get to the global party, let's talk about the pre-game rituals. About a month before the Spring Festival:

• Day 8: Up north, folks start pickling garlic in aged vinegar – Laba Garlic. This garlic concoction is like their secret weapon for the big day.
• Days 23 and 24: It's time to clean up, prepare some sweets, kick out bad vibes, and keep these customs alive in our modern world.
• Day 25: Tofu-making day; Day 26: Let the shopping spree begin; Day 27: Poultry slaughter day – in the old days, it was a whole process, but now, thanks to online shopping and supermarkets, it's a breeze.
• Day 28: Decorating the House and Fermenting pastries.
• Day 29: Crafting various pastries and sweet treats.
• Day 30: The big one – reunion dinner, staying up past midnight, swapping blessings, and handing out those red envelopes.

Now, let's talk feast! Chinese New Year is all about chowing down on symbolic and lucky foods:

• Southern Tangyuan and Northern Dumplings🥟:
  Down south, they're savouring Tangyuan, those delightful sweet rice dumplings. Meanwhile, up north, it's all about Dumplings – both symbolising unity and family togetherness.
  
  
• Whole Fish🐟:
  Now, for the main act – the whole fish. It's not just any fish; it's a symbol of surplus for the upcoming year. The pronunciation of "fish" resembles that of "surplus," bringing in a wave of prosperity.
  
• Stewed Chicken🍲:
  Moving on to the savoury side, imagine a succulent stewed chicken stealing the spotlight. Not only does it taste divine, but it also shares a similar pronunciation with "auspicious," inviting good luck and positive vibes for the year ahead.
  
  
• Tangerines with Leaves:🍊
  And for dessert, picture tangerines – extra points if they come with leaves attached. These citrusy delights represent prosperity and good fortune. It's a wordplay thing – "tangerine" sounds a lot like "luck" in Chinese.
  
  
• Longevity Noodles🍜:
  Now, imagine a plate of long, never-ending noodles. These aren't just your average noodles; they symbolise a wish for a long and prosperous life. The longer the noodles, the better the fortune.
  
• Braised Pork🥩:
  Then there's the rich and hearty braised pork. It's not just about the flavours; it's a symbol of creating a lively and thriving atmosphere for the coming year.
  
• Steamed Buns🥠:
  Last but not least, steamed buns make their grand entrance. Soft, fluffy, and oh-so-delicious, they symbolise the essence of reunion – bringing loved ones together in warmth and joy.
  
  

And now, the global party – as more Chinese folks spread their wings, Chinese New Year celebrations have turned into a worldwide phenomenon. Picture this: London's Chinatown hosting a mega party that lures in 6 million party-goers, and Trafalgar Square turning into the hottest spot in town, showcasing the melting pot of London's cultural festivities. It's not just about the big cities; even local institutions, schools, and communities around the world are jumping on the bandwagon, sharing the joy of Chinese New Year with everyone. It's a global vibe, my friends, and everyone's invited!

And as we step into the Year of the Dragon, join us at WowzaBox, where you can discover the 🏮perfect festive feast to ensure a year of luck and good health🧧. Because, you see, amidst the delicious flavours, the true essence of Chinese New Year lies in bringing family and friends together to share joy. Cheers to a year filled with fortune, happiness, and delectable memories – that's the spirit of Chinese New Year! 🥂🐉🎊