YEAR OF THE TIGER

The lunar new year begins Tuesday, ushering in the year of the tiger. The lunar calendar, used in both Chinese and Vietnamese cultures, is divided into 12 segments, with each assigned an animal sign. The Chinese New Year celebration starts with the new moon on the first day of the new year and ends on the full moon 15 days later. TRADITIONAL PRACTICES FIRST DAY

Visit family: The oldest and most senior family members will be visited in order to strengthen family kinship. Also, guests are welcomed with sweets.

SECOND DAY

Birthday of dog: After being offered sacrifices, the god of wealth leaves for heaven. People will see the deity off, wishing for a prosperous year and eating wonton resembling the shape of an ingot.

THIRD DAY

Birthday of pig: People pay respects to the dead. Some believe evil spirits roam the earth on this day.

FOURTH DAY

Birthday of sheep: The fourth day is a continuation of the third day.

FIFTH DAY

Birthday of the god of wealth: Respect is payed to the god of wealth. All businesses reopen.

SIXTH DAY

Birthday of horse: Marks a time to visit temples, relatives and friends.

SEVENTH DAY

Birthday of men: Is the birthday of ordinary or common men and celebrated with certain foods.

EIGHTH DAY

Completion day: People have another family reunion dinner and a midnight prayer to the jade emperor.

NINTH DAY

Birthday of jade emperor: Celebrate the birthday of emperor, believed to be ruler of all heavens and Earth.

10TH TO 12TH DAYS

Feasting: More feasting with friends and family.

13TH DAY

Slow down: Vegetarian foods are eaten to cleanse the digestive systems of all the rich foods.

14TH DAY

Lantern decoration day: Preparations are made for the Lantern Festival.

15TH DAY

Lantern Festival Day: This marks the full moon after the spring festival and the new year. Another reunion dinner is held with lanterns and oranges being a large part of the celebrations.