Happy Lunar New Year from Chanticleer! 

We have a slight conundrum this year.

Is it the Year of Rabbit? 

or the Year of the Cat? 

In our home, it is a conundrum because we are a “cat” family. We have two cats who definitely rule our house. And then, more importantly, there are the Vietnamese relations in our family. You see, Vietnam celebrates the Year of the Cat instead of the Year of the Rabbit. From what I understand, there are not many rabbits in Vietnam. To most Vietnamese, cats are part of the family. They are known and appreciated because not only do they chase away bad spirits and bring good luck, but they also help protect food and the home from rodents. Some say the Vietnamese chose the cat instead of the rabbit because they are considered to be “friends living in their house.”

However, most of the people observing Lunar New Year (China, Japan, & Philippines, Malaysia, and other East Asian countries) will consider this Year of the Rabbit. Last year was the Year of the Tiger. There are twelve Chinese zodiac animals that cycle annually. The first day of the Lunar New Year starts with the new moon that appears between January 21 and February 20. This year the Lunar New Year starts early on the 22nd of January. Winter Solstice is known as the eleventh month of the lunar year. Most years, the Lunar New Year falls on the second new moon after Winter Solstice.

The first mention of the Lunar New Year was traced to sometime between (475 BC and 202 BC).

Interesting Facts to Know about the Lunar New Year

• The largest annual migration of people takes place to celebrate the Lunar New Year when observers travel for family reunions.
• More than 3.5 billion journeys in China are made during the Lunar New Year celebration
• Lunar New Year is celebrated by more than three billion people
• Preparations begin a month in advance
• People in China get 7 days off from work (January 31st – February 6th)
• For the first time anywhere in the U.S., the Lunar New Year will be an official state holiday in California starting in 2023.
• Some people get another additional 7 days off from work
• Little Year: Takes place a week before Lunar New Year Day. It is a time for remembrance
• Lunar New Year’s Eve is a day of gift-giving (Red Envelopes!)
• Spring Festival begins with Lunar New Year’s Day — time for feasting, celebrating, and family
• Lantern Festival ( the last five days) also known as “the Friends and Sweetheart’s Time” or the 15th day of the New Lunar Year.
• Trafalger Square in London hosts one the largest parties outside of China itself for Lunar New Year
• Here on the west coast of North America, large celebrations take place in Vancouver, B.C., Seattle, San Francisco, and others.

Auspicious Traditions for the Lunar New Year

• Clean and organize your writing space (prior to New Year’s Day). If you can’t complete cleaning ( I know I won’t be able to), you may continue to clean and organize after three full days. It is said that one should refrain from cleaning on Lunar New Year’s Day as it could be seen as sweeping away your good fortune (or writing mojo).
• Place a bowl of oranges, mandarins, or tangerines in your writing lair to promote positive energy.
• Wear new clothes on the Lunar New Year – Sunday, Jan 22nd, 2023. Red and bright colors are advised. It is advised not to wear black or white clothing.
• Enjoy something sweet to ensure a sweet new year!
• Open windows and doors in your writing lair on New Lunar Year’s Day to bring in the new luck and fortune of the New Year.
• For those who play board games, it is considered lucky to play to stay awake on New Year’s Eve until the New Lunar Year arrives.
• Eat almonds and cookies/cakes made from almonds to bring on a strong and bright future (that is if you’re not allergic to almonds).

Lucky Colors for 2023 Year of the Rabbit and/or Cat

• Red is a lucky color for women’s wallets this year.
• Azure blue and apple green especially on accent items that are mobile like luggage, a bag, a scarf, a hat,  keychains, a bracelet—things that you carry or that or moveable.

It is predicted that the Year of the Rabbit and/or Cat comes with the promise of luck and prosperity. It is predicted to be a year of hope, strength, and peace! 

Look for our posts with the 2023 Lunar New Year Horoscopes that are Fun and Inspirational! 

I’ve decided to celebrate both animals the Cat and the Rabbit for the Lunar New Year – Double Happiness!