Happy Chinese New Year 2018
The Year of the Dog
February 16-March 2, 2018

This is a Year of Earth Dog, starting from Feb. 16, 2018 (Chinese New Year) and lasting to Feb. 4, 2019. Dog is the eleventh in the 12-year cycle of Chinese zodiac sign. The Years of the Dog include 1922, 1934, 1946, 1958, 1970, 1982, 1994, 2006, 2018, 2030, 2042… 

A Dog’s most defining characteristic is their loyalty. They will never abandon their friends, family or work.

Honest and just, they are popular in social circles. Everyone needs a Dog friend for advice and help. They are also good at helping others find and fix their bad habits.

Despite how they act, they are worried and anxious inside. However, they will not let this stop them. Once they decide on something, no one can persuade them against it. Find out what it means for you and learn more about this ancient tradition celebrated by millions of people around the globe here. 

We checked in with a couple of friends who
are immersed in Chinese culture to find
out how they celebrate the New Year. 

HEIDI CHANG

Based in Honolulu, Hawaii, Heidi Chang is an award-winning multimedia journalist, who produces stories about Hawaii and the Pacific Rim for radio, TV, digital media and print. As a reporter, producer, host and anchor, she’s contributed to local, national and international media. She recently shared a byline in the Los Angeles Times covering the false alarm of a nuclear attack on Hawaii. Visit her website here.

“This is my time to really clean house. It’s the best way to start the New Year fresh, and, of course, food! Getting together with treasured friends and family and sharing the traditional New Year dish, Jai, a vegetarian soup/stew, that is delicious and auspicious. See the video below for its preparation. Enjoy. Happy New Year!!!”

You’ll find a detailed list of ingredients, where to
buy them and a recipe for preparing Jai by clicking here.

TONY TAYLOR

Originally from Atlanta, GA, Tony has been living in Taipei, Taiwan, since 1984.  His broadcast career includes having been program director for the English language network ICRT, on Taiwan, as well as morning show host on 93FMQ, program director for KIKI/KMAI-FM, Honolulu, HI. and WQXI in Atlanta, among others. He is currently Director of International Projects, Performance Workshop; Music/Event Producer and Radio/TV personality. Tony has been married to Ismene Ting, actress, director and playwright, since 1985. Follow on Twitter @TaylorTony USA.

“Every Chinese New Year, families and friends always get together and celebrate with much dining and drinking. Many special dishes are prepared and each has their own significance in the meal. Longevity, good health, prosperity, having children, etc. In years past, our family get togethers included much food, lively discussions, some drinking and much enjoyment of the season.

We would also go visit uncles and aunties to Bai-nian, bow to show respect. Family altars are decorated with large red letter placards and fresh flowers. Paying respect to deceased family members is always a part of Chinese New Year.

After the family feast is over, the young children get excited about what comes next. The handing out of Hongbao, red envelopes with good luck money stuffed inside, is a much anticipated event. As midnight approaches, the excitement builds as fireworks are prepared for lighting at midnight. After that, we all go home and sleep it off. Cheers.”