YEAR OF THE ROOSTER
- adrienne490
- Jan 27, 2017
- 3 min read
Chinese New Year in 2017 will be heralded in on Saturday, January 28th and this year is the Year of the Rooster.
The Rooster was one of the 12 zodiac animals given a year in their honor by the ancient gods. Each animal possesses its own distinct traits and the Rooster is no different. The Rooster is a loud and proud animal, quite the opposite of, for example, the quiet, introverted Sheep. To say there will be a lot of barnyard crowing, preening and exhibitionism in the coming year would be an understatement. Yes, much male testosterone on display.
But Roosters are known for their many positive attributes as well; honesty, punctuality (you know they are going to crow right on time each morning), hard work, bravery and competitiveness, as well as prosperity (they reproduce quickly, translating to wealth).
If you were born in 1945, 1957, 1969, 1981, 1993, 2005, then you are a Rooster, too.
Chinese New Year is based on the lunar calendar, always occuring on the second new moon after Winter Solstice , therefore the date fluctuates each year. This year's Chinese year actually lasts for 13 months and will include two Springs (based on the Chinese calendar).
Traditional New Year customs include firework displays (to dispel negative energy), elaborate parades featuring the Dragon and Lion Dances and much feasting with many dishes that each carry important symbolism. It is a very important holiday in China, as well as Chinese communities across the globe. The country essentially shuts down during this period, with everyone making the journey back to home, even if it requires travelling hundreds of miles or more. It is a holiday shared with family.
NYC hosts some of the best Chinese New Year parades in the country. This year's first celebration will occur on Saturday, January 28th in Manhattan's Chinatown, the New Year Firecracker Ceremony and Cultural Festival. Then on Sunday, February 5th, Chinatown again hosts the 18th Annual NYC Lunar New Year Parade. For more info, visit http://betterchinatown.com/ There will also be celebrations held in Brooklyn and Flushing, Queens, home to large Chinese populations, as well.
What can we expect in the lunar new year ahead? Most Chinese astrologers concur that this will be a positive year of growth and success. According to astrologer Susan Levitt, the Fire Rooster portends a year full of enthusiasm, passion, and creativity. As the Rooster is devoted to work, it has the ability to stabilize things and bring success.
Levitt also refers to this year's zodiac animal as the Phoenix, a sign of rebirth and transformation. The phoenix, according to Levitt, "is a brilliant, inspirational, and fearless visionary. The element Fire is perfect for Phoenix because Fire brings strength, passion, bravery, and leadership. So now is the year to break free, claim your destiny, and overcome obstacles. You can heal past actions, even past lives, with your new awareness."
This day before the New Year begins is a good day to get your house tidy and organized. Purchase some fresh oranges to place in a bowl, and if you are dining out for a New Year's celebration be sure to include one of many auspicious dishes - extra long noodles for long life, spring rolls for wealth (they resemble gold bars) Kung Po Chicken, literally "firecracker" chicken to ward off negative energy and steamed dumplings, also for wealth and prosperity.
While the colors red and gold rule during the New Year celebrations, the colors considered lucky for this upcoming year are yellow, gold and brown, as are all grounding earth tones such as cream, beige and terracotta.
However you choose to spend the lunar new year, may it be filled with much joy, happiness and success. Gung Hay Fat Choy!
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