How Does Chinese New Year Affect the World?

(Newswire.net — February 13, 2013)  Scottsdale, AZ — When you consider the enormity in the absolute numbers of people that are Chinese and who follow the Lunar New Year, there is close to one third the population of the world involved.  Now coupled with those people and businesses that interface and rely upon this population, it is no wonder that business, markets, and commerce are wrestled to their knees over this 2 ½ week period of time. 

Chinese restaurants all over know this fact all too well.  Their reservations list and bookings are bursting at the seams.  For Chinese people, the banquets and large family meals are an integral part of the celebration.  Abundance in food, wealth, and health are ingredients ingrained in the fabric of the cultural nucleus of the Chinese. 

Chinese food in and of itself has its own significance in its color, texture, and composition.  Greens are always important as they are a sign of wealth with healthy attributes.  Additionally, many Chinese and Asians are Buddhists and adhere to a vegetarian diet.  The greens and other plant like foods are central to a Chinese New Year staple dish called Buddha’s Delight. 

With such an obsession with food and family, the focus on anything other than this celebratory time is for naught. Trading markets certainly see a falloff in liquidity while gaming locations see an upsurge.  Gambling is the pulse of Chinese entertainment.  Close down a casino in Macau or Las Vegas on Chinese New Year and take off 40% of the annual profits. 

The Chinese restaurants carry the cultural torch for relaying the traditions and the food specialties during this time.  Their preparation and presentations tell much of the stories and folktales that accompany these delicacies.  Fish and chicken is always served as they represent luck and abundance.  The head and tail of any animal served is always intact and for good reason.  The completion of life is demonstrated with a complete animal that is served on a platter for all to see and taste.  Often times, there are colorful chips and fruits that ornately decorate a plate which attracts good luck and tidings for the new year. 

This period of time is also significant as a demarcation point for people to revamp and set their sights and goals for a healthy and prosperous beginning as the year turns another page.  It is certainly an opportunity for many inside and outside the Chinese culture to experience the depth and history of a heritage worthy of centuries and dynasties past.