Happy Lunar New Year! February 1, 2022, marks the beginning of a 15-day celebration in Chinese culture, culminating with a Lantern Festival on February 15. The Lunar New Year is a celebration of the coming of spring and the beginning of a new year on the lunisolar calendar. While it’s an important holiday in China, celebrations spread as far as South Korea, Vietnam, Thailand, The Philippines, and anywhere else with a substantial Chinese population. In celebration of the holiday, we sat down with supply chain manager Jessie Zhan to learn more about the Lunar New Year and how she celebrates. 

What is the theme of the 2022 Lunar New Year? How is the theme determined?:

“In Chinese culture, there are 12 animal zodiac signs – one animal serves as the theme per year, and they rotate every 12 years. The animals include the rat, ox, tiger, rabbit, dragon, snake, horse, goat, monkey, rooster, dog, and pig. This year’s theme is the eye of the tiger.”

What are some Lunar New Year traditions you and your family partake in?:

“We have family gatherings and reunions at our parents’ and grandparents’ house – much like Christmas! There always lots of fireworks, dumplings and gift giving. We give the children in our family red envelopes with a little cash for good luck and well wishes. We light lanterns and wear traditional costumes in celebration.”

Let’s talk flavor. Are there any dishes you and your loved ones like to share in celebration of the Lunar New Year?:

“There’s always lots of stewed fish. We intentionally save some as leftovers – symbolizing abundance and savings after a long year of hard work. In addition, my family and I love chicken soup and dumplings!”