Chinese communities around the world are in the midst of celebrating the New Year. This occasion is one of the largest celebrations throughout the year in the culture, lasting a full two weeks and including a variety of festivities along with an array of foods.
Among the symbolism connected with the New Year's events is the wearing of red for good luck and the transition into a new phase of the Chinese lunar calendar.
"The Chinese New Year is the biggest holiday in China," noted Emily Sheng, who is the Founder and President of EZ Mandarin of Western New York.
Sheng tells WBFO News the significance of this transition.
"Their horse year is based on their Chinese Zodiac -- which we have 12-animals -- symbolize 12-years. Every year there will be people born in the year and symbolized on one of the animal and usually they will connect with the character of that animal," said Sheng.
The character for those born in this year of the horse will include hard work and loyalty.
Sheng explains that bringing the celebration to the Niagara Frontier makes sense as the holiday spans time and the globe.
Sheng has joined with a variety of other organizations to bring the festivities of the Chinese New Year to the Buffalo region.
The Southtowns Chinese New Year Community Event was held Sunday at the Bryant & Stratton campus in Orchard Park. The event included performances, activities and an assortment of foods.
"Every year to us is a good luck year," noted Sheng. "Usually we encourage people to wear red."
