On January 28th, millions of people across the world gather with their families have reunion dinners and to light firecrackers to celebrate the Chinese New Year. This year is the Year of the Rooster, tenth in the twelve-year cycle of Chinese zodiac signs, following the Year of the Monkey. People born in the Year of the Rooster are characterized as trustworthy and responsible with a good sense of timekeeping.

The date of Chinese New Year is dictated by the Chinese lunar calendar, organized by movements of the moon. The date of celebration differs every year, but it usually occurs within the months of January and February.

The day is traditionally marked with greeting each other with blessings of happiness and prosperity, as well as giving of gifts and celebration with family. The Chinese New Year is a great time to start anew. Many families use this chance to clean their houses, sweeping away bad fortune. Homes are also decorated with red and gold banners, which is believed to be auspicious color. Red envelopes stuffed with “lucky money” are given to children to ward away bad spirits, in hopes that it will be a lucky and prosperous year to come.

At Kent, Chinese students took part in the celebration as well, and, with the assistance of Dr. Meng, prepared handmade dumplings along with a few other Chinese dishes. A stream of the New Year Gala in China was also played on the Case common room television to liven up the atmosphere and remind students of the celebrations occurring back home and around the globe.