January 1, 2024

Dear friends and neighbors:

As the President of the Chinese American Association of North Hempstead (CAANH), I’m delighted to share some personal reflections on the significance of the Lunar New Year, especially as we welcome the Year of the Dragon in 2024.

The Lunar New Year, also known as the Spring Festival or Chinese New Year, is a cherished tradition with a history spanning over 4,000 years. It marks the start of the new year based on the lunar calendar, falling between January 21st and February 20th.

In the Chinese zodiac, there are 12 animal signs, and each year is associated with a specific animal. The Year of the Dragon is particularly significant as dragons are seen as powerful, courageous, and transformative creatures, symbolizing good luck and prosperity. As we embrace this auspicious year, we look forward to positive changes and new opportunities.

For me and my family, the Lunar New Year is a time when we come together to connect with our Chinese heritage.

One of the highlights of our celebration is the exchange of red envelopes, known as “hongbao” in Mandarin. I especially enjoy presenting these envelopes to my parents and children as tokens of good wishes for prosperity and happiness.

Our festivities also include a reunion dinner on New Year’s Eve, where three generations of family gather around a table filled with traditional dishes that carry hopes for the year ahead. Dumplings symbolize wealth, and fish represents prosperity.

The Lunar New Year is also a time for mesmerizing lion and dragon dances, accompanied by the sounds of firecrackers. These performances are believed to ward off negative energy and usher in good fortune.

Beyond the celebrations, the Lunar New Year offers us a moment to reflect on our cultural heritage and express gratitude for the blessings of family. It’s a reminder that, no matter where life may take us, our traditions remain a source of strength and connection.

Sincerely yours,

Rosalyn Hu Meyer
President of CAANH