Communities around the world celebrate Lunar New Year as a time of renewal, reflection, and togetherness. Lunar New Year is observed by millions across diverse cultures, including Chinese, Korean, Vietnamese, Mongolian, Malaysian, Singaporean, Thai, Filipino, and others. This vibrant holiday marks the beginning of a new lunar calendar cycle and is rich with traditions that emphasize family, prosperity, and good health. Fidelis Care celebrates the rich cultural heritage that shapes this holiday and recognizes its universal themes of wellness and connection.
Fidelis Care Retention Manager Xiaofang (Michelle) Z. shares the story of how she and her family are celebrating this Lunar New Year, the Year of the Snake:
In Chinese culture, the snake symbolizes wisdom and transformation. Much like the serpent sheds its skin, this year encourages personal and spiritual renewal. It’s a time to leave behind old habits, negative influences, and limiting beliefs, making way for new beginnings. The snake is also associated with beauty, elegance, and keen perception, inspiring us to approach life with attention to detail and a focus on inner harmony.
Traditionally, the Lunar New Year is a time for family reunions, feasts, and festivities. The annual lion dance, vibrant red lanterns, and the exchange of red envelopes all carry symbolic meaning for great health, wealth, and prosperity.
Family Reunions
No matter where or how far away you live, the Lunar New Year is a time when families reunite. On New Year’s Eve, everyone gathers for a festive dinner. Parents joyfully prepare a variety of dishes to share with their children and relatives. In Chinese culture, food and dining are seen as expressions of love. During meals, it is common for people to serve food to their family and friends, symbolizing care and thoughtfulness.
Examples of foods include:
Jiaozi (Dumplings): Dumplings represent wealth in Chinese culture because they resemble Chinese gold ingots. The more dumplings you eat during the New Year celebrations, the more money you are believed to attract in the coming year.
Tang Yuan (Rice Balls in Sweet Syrup): These ball-shaped treats, made from glutinous rice flour, symbolize togetherness and family reunion. Their shape and pronunciation are associated with unity and the joy of being with loved ones.
Fish: The word for fish in Chinese, "Yu," sounds like the word for "surplus" or "abundance." Eating fish is believed to bring increased wealth and income in the New Year.
Red is the Lucky Color
Red symbolizes good luck, prosperity, and happiness. It is considered a color that brings fortune and wards off evil spirits, ensuring a prosperous start to the year. Wearing new, red clothes during the Chinese Lunar New Year signifies a fresh start, leaving behind the previous year’s troubles and bad luck. It's a way to embrace new opportunities and make a positive start for the year ahead.
Respecting Elders and Giving Red Envelopes
In Chinese culture, respect for the elderly is a core value. Giving red envelopes with cash to elders shows gratitude and expresses appreciation for their care and nurturing over the years.
In some regions, giving a red envelope to a single person can be a subtle wish for them to find a suitable partner in the coming year, further emphasizing the idea of love, family, and prosperity.
I wish everyone a happy, healthy, and prosperous Lunar New Year! Gong Xi Fa Cai!