Happy Lunar New Year!
Lunar New Year, also known as Chinese New Year or Spring Festival, is dictated by the moon, so the exact celebration dates change every year. It usually falls between late January and late February. This year, it is being celebrated from Sunday 22 January to Sunday 5 February 2023.
The Year of the Rabbit
This Lunar New Year marks the transition to the new Chinese zodiac sign – the Rabbit.
According to predictions, the Rabbit is a symbol of longevity, peace, and prosperity in Chinese culture. 2023 is predicted to be a year of hope. People born in years of the Rabbit are believed to be vigilant, witty, quick-minded, and ingenious. Recent Rabbit years include: 1927, 1939, 1951, 1963, 1975, 1987, 1999 and 2011.
Surprisingly, a zodiac sign’s year is the unluckiest for them in Chinese astrology, with Rabbits predicted to face many challenges with frequent life changes. Rabbits are advised to be more careful about all aspects of their lives in 2023.
It's better for Rabbits to avoid big changes, like getting married or starting a new company. Be circumspect with problem solving and communication and wear red underwear and socks to reduce bad luck. A Rabbit’s career will be okay if they work hard, and, despite everything, a promotion is likely. A Rabbit should believe that 'a rainbow will come after the wind and rain'.
The luckiest Chinese zodiac signs in 2023 are Oxes, Tigers, and Snakes. Then, with not quite so much luck, come Dogs, Horses, Goats and Pigs. Rabbits' and Rats' fortunes will be influenced by 'opposition to Tai Sui', which means their strengths and weaknesses are magnified during this time. Roosters and Monkeys will have to work especially hard in 2023 to make headway.
What’s your Chinese zodiac sign? Find out here.
Celebrating Lunar New Year
More than a million Australians, mostly from the Chinese, Korean and Vietnamese communities, celebrate Lunar New Year, with vibrant festivals around the country featuring food stalls, lion dancing and cultural performances.
Lunar New Year's Eve is normally a big occasion marked by a traditional reunion dinner, with tables filled with dishes meant to bring luck, prosperity and good fortune.
One of the traditional recipes shared during the festivities is yuanxiao—sweet glutinous rice balls that are typically filled with a sweet red bean paste, sesame paste, or even peanut butter.
The Chinese believe that the round shape of the yuanxiao dumplings and the special bowls in which they are commonly served symbolise family togetherness. By eating the rice balls, they will bring their family happiness and good luck in the new year. Want to give them a try? Find the recipe here.
新 年 快 乐
Xīn nián kuài lè!