The Year of the Metal Ox
Miya wishes you a Happy Chinese New Year!
Kung Hei Fat Choy!
Today, we celebrate Chinese New Year! Wishing your families a prosperous year ahead.
The 2021 Chinese New Year falls on February 12th, 2021 and celebrations culminate with the Lantern Festival on February 26th, 2021. Chinese New Year lasts 16 days, but only the first 7 days are considered a public holiday (February 11th–17th, 2021). Chinese New Year marks the transition between zodiac signs: 2021 is the year of the Ox; 2020 was the year of the Rat.
New Year Traditions
The Chinese New Year has a number of traditions. Here are some of our personal favorites! Learn more about the holiday!
Red Envelopes
Elders will give the younger generation red envelopes when they are paid a visit for the new year. The money in red envelopes is also known as 压岁钱 (yā suì qián), literally meaning “money to anchor the year.”
In the past, currency was in the form of donut-shaped coins. They would use red string to tie the coins together, which transitioned to paper money being wrapped in red paper – and now, being put into red envelopes.
Clothing
Wearing new clothes is a tradition that dates back to the Northern and Southern dynasties (420–589 AD). In particular, it was a tradition during the Song Dynasty (960–1279 AD) for people to show off their new clothing as they visited friends on New Year’s Day. Wearing beautiful new clothes is a part of the Spring Festival celebrations, just like a special meal.
Wear Red
Celebrate Chinese New Year in style!
Food
A huge part of Chinese culture concerns eating as a family. Learn about special New Year dishes! What are your favorites? Let us know in the comments.
Year of the Ox
2021 is a year of the Metal Ox, which begins on February 12th, 2021and lasts until January 31st, 2022. Ox years are: 1961, 1973, 1985, 1997, 2009, 2021, 2033… Like each zodiac sign, an Ox year occurs every 12 years. The Ox occupies the second position in the Chinese Zodiac. The 12 zodiac animals are: Rat, Ox, Tiger, Rabbit, Dragon, Snake, Horse, Goat, Monkey, Rooster, Dog, and Pig.
The Legend of the Ox
Watch this YouTube video on the Ox:
The story of the rat exploiting the ox to arrive first, and the ox not being upset, reveals the goodness they are supposed to represent. Oxes are known for their diligence, dependability, and strength. They have an honest nature and are patient and consistent. Communication may be a weak point, though, with stubbornness arising at times. Learn more about the zodiac sign.
