Lunar New Year

The Lunar New Year, also known as Spring Festival is celebrated in numerous East Asian countries. The origins of this celebration go back thousands of years.

Prior to the festival, people clean their houses thoroughly in a custom called 'sweeping the ground', to remove any bad luck that might be lingering in the house. They also display good wishes outside their homes, either side of the door post.

The festival begins with the first new moon of the lunar calendar and ends on the first full moon, some 15 days later.

Fireworks and family celebrations mark this holiday, which culminates in the Lantern Festival.  On this evening colourful lanterns light up the houses and traditional food is eaten, such as, yuanxiao (sticky rice balls that symbolise family unity), fagao (prosperity cake), and yusheng (raw fish and vegetable salad).

2021 marks the Year of the Ox

People born in the Year of the Ox are considered to be strong, reliable, and conscientious. They inspire confidence in others. They are also known as patient, methodical and trustworthy. 

Oh how I miss our World Cafe 😢😢😢 and the opportunity to do our Chopstick Challenge. Here are a few images to take us down memory lane ...