Happy New Year - Gung Hay Fat Choi

Another year, another Chinese new year! This is now the year of the dragon. The Chinese new year runs on its own 12 year cycle. An animal with distinct characteristics and personalities is associated with each of the twelve years. For most in Asia, the lunar festival lasts for several days. I've never experienced it firsthand , but what I know of it, it involves lots of eating, drinking, fireworks, and downright joy and celebration.

http://www.chinesezodiac.com/

Here in the states, lots of families and friends get together to eat and celebrate. One custom for the new year is to give 'lucky' red envelopes. My own perosnal favorite, obviously, because you get money. There are lucky foods that are generally eaten customarily as well.

http://www.chicagotribune.com/features/food/stew/chi-dragon-new-year-lucky-foods,0,4771984.story

As for my own customs, I like to go out with friends for a few drinks and announce to everyone at the bar that its the new year. Its actually become a really fun tradition for me and I come to really look forward to it. So to all, Happy New Year and eat and drink lots!