If you were born in 1901, 1913, 1925, 1937, 1949, 1961, 1973, 1985, 1997, or 2009 — 2021 is your year. Today marks the start of the Lunar New Year, celebrated by Asian countries + around the world (technically, we’re 24 hours behind the Eastern Hemisphere, so celebrations began yesterday).
Did you know? Each year on the lunar calendar is represented by one of twelve animals, on a twelve year cycle, and 2021 is the Year of the Ox (shout out to our Bull City friends). The Ox is said to represent hard work, positivity, and honesty — and Ox years are said to be a time of grounding and slowing-down (sounds pretty nice right?).
Celebrations of the Lunar New Year typically include lantern festivals, fireworks, gifts of money in red envelopes + the eating of traditional foods associated with prosperity. Here’s how you can join the festivities right here in the Triangle.
🐂 Kids’ Night Out: Chinese New Year edition | Fri., Feb. 12 | 6–8 p.m. | Flour Power Cooking School, 244 Grand Hill Place, Holly Springs | $39 | Available for little chefs aged 5 to 12, this drop-off class will teach participants how to make chicken and rice, egg rolls + Chinese donuts.
🐂 Cha House New Year Celebration | Fri., Feb. 12 + Sat., Feb. 13 | Multiple locations | Celebrations include calligraphy lessons and Chinese knot-tying tutorials + the Cary location will be offering a limited edition glitter drink.
🐂 Chinese New Year Festival | Sat., Feb. 13 | 2–5 p.m. | Virtual | Free | Ring in the Lunar New Year with the Triangle Area Chinese American Society as they celebrate with cultural performances and opportunities to win prizes.
🐂 Family and Friends Day | Sun., Feb. 28 | 2–5 p.m. | Virtual | Free | UNC’s Flying Silk dance troupe will perform, hosted by the Ackland Museum, plus the program includes hands-on art demonstrations to celebrate the Year of the Ox.
