Zodiac & Traditions
This animal is the first one in the Chinese zodiac.
RAT
What food looks like little money bags?
It is dumplings.
What is a "Hongbao"?
It is a red envelope with money inside.
Who do people visit during Chinese New Year?
They visit family and friends.
What does the color red represent during New Year?
It represents good luck.
Before Chinese New Year, people do this to their houses.
cleaning: sweeping, moping and dusting
What is "Nian Gao"?
It is a sweet, sticky rice cake.
Who gives red envelopes to children?
Parents, grandparents, or married adults give them.
What is the big meal called that families eat together?
It is called the reunion dinner.
Why do people set off fireworks?
To scare away evil spirits.
Why do people sweep away bad luck?
To make room for good luck.
Why do people eat fish during Chinese New Year?
Eating fish is a wish to have plenty of money and food every year.
What does the money in a red envelope symbolize?
It symbolizes good luck.
What do families do after dinner?
They spend time together, watch TV, or play games.
What do the lion and dragon dances represent?
They represent strength and good luck.
How many animals are there in the Chinese zodiac?
12: Rat Ox Tiger Rabbit Dragon Snake Horse Goat Monkey Rooster Dog Pig
What fruit is the color of gold and a popular gift?
It is an orange (or tangerine).
What kind of numbers are lucky to put in a red envelope?
Even numbers (like 6, 8) are lucky.
What do people do if they live far from their family?
They travel to see them.
What does "Gong Xi Fa Cai" mean? 恭喜发财
It means "Wishing you wealth and prosperity."
Why do people stop cleaning on New Year's Day?
Because they don't want to sweep away the new good luck.
What is Hot Pot?
It is a meal where you cook food in soup at the table.
What should you NOT do with a red envelope right after receiving it?
You should not open it in front of the person who gave it.
What color of clothes do people wear for good luck?
They wear red clothes.
Why is the reunion dinner so important?
Because it shows the importance of family.