We’ve just finished celebrating Christmas and the New Year, yet we are already stoked to start our annual preparations for the next big exciting thing: Chinese New Year! There are lots to do leading up to the Lunar New Year celebrations, and what better place to soak in the festivities as well as to get all your Chinese New Year necessities than at Chinatown’s annual CNY night market?

The colourful streets of Chinatown are lined with a variety of stalls that sells everything you’ll need for the New Year. From shops that sell an assortment of traditional and contemporary snacks, ornaments and decorative pieces to roadside stalls that sell interesting knick-knacks and trinkets, we can foresee ourselves spending a very long time here over the next few weeks!

CHINESE NEW YEAR GOODIES GALORE  

Undoubtedly, our favourite part of Chinese New Year has to be all those festive goodies! While some prefer to stick to tradition and sell the usual snacks such as love letters and bak kwa, while others choose to be more innovative by coming up with interesting new snacks that no one has ever seen or heard of before.

Many of the traditional snacks hold very auspicious meanings. For instance, peanuts symbolise vitality, longevity and riches while nian gao is usually eaten for prosperity and promotion. If you’re curious about the meaning of other Chinese New Year traditions, you can read all about them here. 

Chinatown is also the place to be at if you need to stock up on your favourite thematic cookies such as almond cookies and pineapple tarts. Look at all these colourful jars of snacks! Time to put all your diet plans on hold.

If you are a fan of dried meats like lup cheong, waxed duck, liver sausage and other cured delights, you’d be thrilled to know that there is a massive stall with walls that are lined with every kind of cured meat you could name.

GORGEOUS FESTIVE PLANTS 

If you are someone who appreciates exotic plants, you’ll be glad to know that you can find plenty of such plants in the market. Besides traditional favourites such as tangerine plants and pussy willows, feast your eyes on a wide range of other exotic plants that are only available during the Lunar New Year.

INTERESTING TRINKETS AND DECORATIVE ITEMS 

You can’t invite people over to your house for visitations if it isn’t decorated, can you? Fret not though, as the Chinatown market overflows with beautiful decorative items to jazz up your home.

Amidst all the pretty lights and decorations, this man caught our eye. In the middle of a crowded street, he was patiently painting the lively scene of the night market and it was simply mesmerising to watch him at work. It definitely isn’t something that you see every day!

MESMERISING CHINESE NEW YEAR DECORATIONS 

What is a trip to Chinatown without admiring the gorgeous new year decorations that have been painstakingly done up? When it comes to festive decorations, Singapore is known to go all out in terms of the extravagance and sheer size of their displays.

This year is no different and along New Bridge Road at the outskirts of the Chinatown district, you can expect to see a display of two adorable, giant pig lanterns that are surrounded by plenty of small piglet lanterns. It is definitely a sight to behold and makes for a great #OOTD spot for the gram!

The Chinese  Lunar New Year sees a culmination of many things. Family gatherings, thematic costumes, lion dance displays, feasting and so much more. As millennials, we go through the motion of things year after year but has anyone actually stopped to understand why certain traditions and practices even exist in the first place?

Take the iconic yu sheng toss for example. It’s more than just a group of rowdy folks screaming and tossing food in the air in a barbaric fit. In fact, it is a tradition with so much meaning and positivity around it.

To ensure traditions live on, here is our guide to 8 Chinese New Year traditions that every millennial should know.

CHINESE NEW YEAR SNACKS 

What Millennials think: Time to put my diet aside to get fat on all these new year goodies!

What it actually represents: Each Chinese New Year snack has its own symbolic meaning which brings about well wishes for the upcoming year. For instance, watermelon seeds represent vitality and longevity while pineapple tarts are thought of to bring good luck and prosperity to the house.

EATING DUMPLINGS 

What Millennials think: Just another dish that’s served during a reunion meal.

What it actually represents: Dumplings are actually eaten for good fortune as they resemble ingots which were an ancient currency used by the Chinese in the past. Therefore, based on that, the more dumplings you eat, the more wealth you will accumulate for yourself!

FIREWORKS AND FIRECRACKERS

What Millennials think: Perfect photo opportunity for Instagram! It’ll make a pretty aesthetic Boomerang shot.

What it actually represents: Fireworks and firecrackers symbolise good luck for the rest of the year and also is a way to drive away evil spirits. This is based on the ancient story of a mystical beast called Nian who liked to feed on livestock on the eve of Chinese New Year. In order to chase Nian away, the people lit firecrackers to scare it off.

LION DANCE 

What Millennials think: Noisy repetitive beats and a furry lion high on ecstasy.

What it actually represents: People, especially businesses, hire lion dancers to welcome in good luck as well as to drive away evil spirits. The lion itself is a symbol of power, wisdom and good fortune. So, if the lion happens to bite you on the head during one of these performances, lucky you!

NEW YEAR’S EVE REUNION DINNER 

What Millennials think: Time for another round of feasting and have relatives ask about our lives as if they genuinely care.

What it actually represents: New Year’s Eve reunion dinners are considered to be one of the most important dinners for Chinese families, especially for those families who spend very little time together or have family members overseas. During such dinners, family members gather around to catch up as well as spend much-needed quality time with their loved ones over a sumptuous meal.

RED PACKETS 

What Millennials think: Huat ah, free money! I can use this to buy a new iPhone (or gamble at my friend’s place later on).

What it actually represents: Red packets are a channel for sending good luck and wishes to the person on the receiving end.

Photo Credit: Clean My Space 

SPRING CLEANING 

What Millennials think: Time to revamp my wardrobe and bedroom! Guests are coming, better not let them see what kind of a horrible pig I am.

What it actually represents: Spring cleaning is regarded as a way of sweeping away the bad luck to welcome in all the good luck. However, be sure not to let your spring cleaning session drag into the new year — that would mean that you’ll be sweeping all the new year luck away!

STAYING UP PAST MIDNIGHT 

What Millennials think: Tomorrow is a public holiday, I can sleep in. No work, no school, no problem!

What it actually represents: People believe that by staying up past midnight after the reunion dinner, they will be able to properly send off the old and welcome in the new. When it comes to children, it is said that the longer the child stays awake at night, the longer their parents will live. So if your kid manages to stay awake for 24-hours, you’re going to be one old, happy parent.

The Chinese Lunar New Year is an annual festival where many traditions culminate from exchanging of oranges to the receiving of red packets and more. Still, as far as the Chinese New Year goes, the iconic yu sheng toss remains at the helm of all things festive.

Yu Sheng, otherwise known as lo-hei or prosperity toss, is something that we’ve grown terribly fond of. A vibrant centrepiece dish comprising various elements, each boasting its own unique flavour and meaning behind it, the yu sheng is always the first order of business at any family gathering.

Yet, as we find ourselves going through the motion of this tradition year in year out, how many of us millennials can actually say that we truly understand this practice and its significance? To a season dedicated to good fortune, family reunion and feasting, here is our guide on lo hei, what it is and what it represents.

HOW THE MODERN INTERPRETATION CAME TO BE

Since its origins as a simple raw fish dish back in the 1930s, the recipe has undergone a series of transformations, and even until today, people are still finding innovative ways to present this dish. The dish was brought to Singapore in the late 19th century by the migration of Cantonese and Teochew migrants from China.

“Lo Hei”, in Cantonese literally translates to “tossing up good fortune”, and it refers to the ritual adopted in Singapore that involves a group of people gathered around a massive plate, tossing its contents violently while saying out auspicious phrases before eating it—it is popularly believed that the higher the toss, the better your prospects and fortune in the year ahead.

At the very beginning, the salad itself consisted merely of raw fish slices, some vegetables and seasoning to taste. It was only much later on in 1964, where a quartet of chefs—known affectionately as the ‘Four Heavenly Kings’—reinvented the dish and served it at the then, newly opened Lai Wah restaurant. The new salad saw an improvement in texture, colour, and flavour.

KEY INGREDIENTS & WHAT THEY REPRESENT

• Carrots – Represents good luck.
• Green Radish – Represents eternal youth.
• White Radish – Represents good job opportunities in the coming year.
• Raw Fish – symbolises abundance and prosperity.
• Pomelo – Represents luck.
• Crushed Peanuts – Is a sign that your home will be filled with many valuable possessions.
• Sesame Seeds – Represent the hope that your business will flourish.
• Golden Crackers – Symbolises wealth.
• Plum Sauce – A key component that binds the salad together, it represents stronger ties among family and friends.
• Pepper & Cinnamon Powder – signify the wish for wealth
• Oil – Often drizzled onto the salad in a circular motion rather than poured over. This is to symbolise that money will come from all directions.

WHAT COMES NEXT?

Before the tossing begins, the dish needs to be prepared, usually by one individual who adds the ingredients one by one in a specific order, while the reciting wishes of luck and prosperity at the same time.

With the plate placed in the middle, friends and family members stand around the table to toss the ingredients whilst exchanging blessings and words of prosperity—although, more often than not, people tend to just shout them out.

9 INTEGRAL STEPS & WHAT TO SAY

Step: Yu Sheng platter is placed at the centre of the dining table.
What To Say: “Gong Xi Fa Cai” meaning, “Congratulations for your wealth”.

Step: Raw sliced fish is added.
What To Say: “Nian Nian You Yu” meaning, “Abundance throughout the year”.

Step: Pomelo or lime is added.
What To Say: “Da Ji Da Li” meaning, “good luck and great prosperity”.

Step: Spice sachets are sprinkled over.
What To Say: “Zhao Cai Jin Bao” meaning, “May you attract wealth and treasures”.

Step: Oil and plum sauce are poured over ingredients.
What To Say: “Yi Ben Wan Li” meaning “Make 10,000 times of profit with your capital”

Step: Peanut crumbs are poured over.
What To Say: “Jin Yin Man Wu” meaning, “May your home be filled with lots of gold and silver.”

Step: Sesame seeds sprinkled over.
What To Say: “Sheng Yi Xing Long” meaning, “Wishing you prosperity for the business.”

Step: Deep-fried flour crisps in the shape of golden pillows are then added.
What To Say: “Man Di Huang Jin” literally translating to, “May the whole floor be filled with gold.”

Step: The toss commences.
What To Say: “Lo Hei” literally translating to tossing luck.

]]> https://www.ladyironchef.com/2019/01/the-tradition-of-lo-hei/feed/ 0 https://www.ladyironchef.com/2018/01/millenia-walk-reunion-lunch/ https://www.ladyironchef.com/2018/01/millenia-walk-reunion-lunch/#comments Mon, 29 Jan 2018 10:30:43 +0000 ladyironchef http://www.ladyironchef.com/?p=155912 Continue reading →]]>

Nothing is more important than a heartwarming reunion meal with your family and loved ones during Chinese New Year. This is the time of the year when we gather together with a grand reunion feast!

In celebration of the upcoming festive season, Millenia Walk is hosting a 10-course luncheon on 03 Feb 2018 and you can expect lots of festive vibes and a whole plethora of Chinese New Year goodies from the participating food and beverage establishments.

And we need to do one with our readers too! Yes, it is going to happen. Millenia Walk is inviting 10 Ladyironchef readers to take part in this reunion lunch. So join us on 03 Feb 2018 from 12pm to 3pm at the Great Hall as we toss to a prosperous year ahead with the yu sheng and indulge in festive specials such as Oyster & Hotate Katsu and Mazesoba Chasiu signature ramen together.

We will be picking 5 winners and everyone can bring along a +1, so read on to find out more about how you can win a spot at the table at the Millenia Walk Reunion Lunch with the Ladyironchef team!

Millenia Walk is once again hosting a Reunion Lunch featuring a tasting menu by the mall’s F&B establishments and there will be new F&B brands joining the Reunion Lunch for this year’s event. Here are some highlights at Millenia Walk’s 2018 Reunion Lunch.

Contemporary café Plentyfull is bringing Chinese New Year vibes to the table with their Plentyfull Blossom Yu Sheng with Yellowtail Hamachi. For the Chinese, yu sheng is an auspicious staple and the ‘lo hei’ action is a significant Chinese New Year tradition that has been ongoing for decades. Look forward to all the fun and mess as we toss to welcome the upcoming Lunar New Year together!

Tokyo Chopped Salad—the first chopped salad brand in Singapore—aims to impress with their unique Japanese-inspired dressings. All salads are chopped and they come with unique Japanese-inspired dressings which are all crafted by Teppei Yamashita, the chef and founder of Teppei Japanese restaurant and Michelin Bib Gourmand listed Man Man Unagi Restaurant.

Tantalise your taste buds with the Premium Beef Tataki Salad which is tossed with Shiitake Mushroom, Quinoa, Brown Rice and Romaine Lettuce.

Your lunch will continue with Saboten’s seasonal special of Oyster and Hotate Katsu which comprises two pieces of plump and juicy oysters from Hiroshima and two pieces of sweet succulent scallops that are imported from Hokkaido. These jewels from the ocean are first breaded and then deep fried to achieve that perfect golden crust on the outside.

Those who have a penchant for sashimi and seafood will delight themselves in Teppei Syokudo’s Kaisendon; there are six different types of fresh sashimi and seafood to feast on and it is finished off with the restaurant’s famous Teppei sauce. We don’t know about you but we can never say no to one of our all-time favourite Japanese donburi dishes!

On the other end of the taste spectrum, you also get to try Thai Affair’s full-flavoured grilled pork skewers. Named ‘Moo Ping’, the barbecued pork skewers are similar to what you will find on the streets of Bangkok. This popular Thai street food features thick pork slices that are threaded on a satay stick and grilled over charcoal fire.

Whether you are inclined towards a vegetarian lifestyle, love natural food, elemen offers a pleasant dining experience by serving wholesome food that is beneficial to your health without compromising the earth’s sustainability. During Millenia Walk Reunion Lunch, you can look forward to 5 Elements Soup and Charcoal Beancurd with Golden Oyster Mushroom.

Uma Uma is a casual izakaya restaurant and bar featuring Yakitori and Kushikatsu, with cocktails and drinks by Horse’s Mouth Bar and Hakata-styled Ramen from Uma Uma Ramen.They will be preparing Mazesoba Chasiu for the Reunion Lunch.

No meal is complete without some sweet treats and at Millenia Walk’s Reunion Lunch, you get TWO desserts! Diners get to enjoy traditional beancurd, grass jelly or ice jelly from Beano, which uses only non-genetically modified beans from Canada.

Fans of dark chocolate will no doubt have heard of The Dark Gallery and their iconic dark chocolate goodies. Just for this upcoming event, each guest is treated to a scoop of their newly launched 68% Ghana Single Origin Dark Chocolate Ice Cream. You are on your way to Chocolate Heaven.

During the Reunion Lunch, yo can also enjoy filter coffee from The Bean Shop by Cafebond.com. Using freshly roasted Cafebond Basic’s single origin coffee beans from Brazil, the folks from Cafebond.com will hand brew your coffee on the spot.

We will be picking 5 of you (and your plus ones) to join us for this Reunion Lunch at Millenia Walk. Take part in the contest on our Facebook page to win the chance to join us at Millenia Walk Reunion Lunch! See you at Millenia Walk on 03 Feb 2018!

Millenia Walk Reunion Lunch Event Details
Date: 03 Feb 2018
Time: 12pm – 3pm
Where: The Great Hall

Millenia Walk
9 Raffles Boulevard
Singapore 039596
Nearest Station: Promenade

This post is brought to you by Millenia Walk.

Man Fu Yuan at InterContinental Singapore is renowned for serving up excellent Cantonese fare with a bold and modern approach. Having won several accolades including the prestigious ‘Best Asian Restaurants Award’ by The Straits Times and Lian He Zao Bao, this established restaurant presents a selection of perennial favourites from fresh seafood to delicately hand-crafted dim sum.

Expect nothing less from the culinary team this Lunar New Year.

Let your senses take flight as you embark on a flavour trip with one of the 5 festive menus (Prosperity, Success, Abundance, Harmony and Fortune)—all curated and handcrafted by Executive Chef Eric Neo and his team of experienced chefs. Available until 2 March 2018, the menus include auspicious highlights available from S$118++ per guest.

We recently experienced the culinary highlights of the prix-fixe menus for ourselves. It was a memorable lunch and it reminded us once again why Man Fu Yuan remains as one of the finest dining destinations for all who enjoy an authentic Cantonese feast in Singapore.

TREASURES YU SHENG

All Chinese New Year meals begin with a round of lo hei. Welcome the festivities with a toss to a prosperous year ahead with Chef Eric’s new creation—the Prosperity Yu Sheng that can be found in the Success Menu (S$188++ per guest) and the Harmony Menu (S$1388++ for 10 guests) which features Hokkaido scallops, salmon, and Sake Goma sesame dressing.

Those looking for a more indulgent celebration can opt for the Fortune Menu (S$2888++ for 10 guests) which features abalone in addition to the two other fresh seafood options.

DOUBLE-BOILED CHICKEN SOUP 

When it comes to culinary technique and traditional Chinese cooking flavours, few execute both as flawlessly as Chef Eric. The Double-boiled Chicken Soup with fish maw, bamboo pith and Matsutake mushrooms is a fine example of his culinary prowess in a bowl—fine, flavourful and pleasantly balanced.

In making this soup, pork bones are boiled for four hours to extract the rich flavours and goodness, and rare fresh Matsutake mushrooms are then added along with the other ingredients to impart umami to the broth. This hearty soup is crafted to delight through its delicate yet robust aroma and flavour which not only left us in total awe, but our souls wanting more.

This glorious soup can be found in both the Abundance Menu (S$1188++ for 10 guests) and the Harmony Menu (S$1388++ for 10 guests).

MAN FU YUAN ABUNDANCE TREASURE POT

A household staple during Chinese New Year, Pen Cai is essentially a claypot filled to the brim with goodies such as premium seafood, pork, chicken, vegetables and more, it is a one-dish-wonder that will no doubt impress.

At Man Fu Yuan, the traditional Pen Cai—otherwise known here as the Man Fu Yuan Abundance Treasure Pot which is available on the Fortune Menu (S$2888++ for 10 guests), as a á la carte order, or as a takeaway—is amped up with a total of 18 indulgent ingredients. Expect to find prized delicacies such as 10-head whole abalone, Canadian lobster, Hokkaido scallop, live prawns, pig’s trotter, dried oyster and many more delectable ingredients within.

STEAMED LOBSTER WITH CHINESE WINE & EGG WHITE

Tender, fresh and accented with a punchy yet aromatic wine aroma, the Steamed Lobster with Chinese Wine & Egg White is a stellar dish that is well worth the expense. The egg white provides a nice richness to the dish and also acts as a sponge to absorb all that delicious sauce.

Remarkably ambrosial, this lobster dish is unlike any other lobster dish that we have tried before and is a true testament to the saying that if you have fresh ingredients, the simplest preparation will yield the best results.

STEAMED TIGER GAROUPA WITH MUSHROOMS & CHINESE HAM

A steamed whole fish is always a delight on any Chinese table, and it’s almost always served at holiday meals and special occasions. This is especially true for Cantonese families during the Lunar New Year.

The Steamed Tiger Garoupa with Mushrooms and Chinese Ham is a dish that is sure to please. The fish is tender and moist, with the Chinese ham imparting a savoury and somewhat creamy aftertaste to complement the fish’s naturally sweet taste.

GLUTINOUS RICE WITH BONELESS CHICKEN IN LOTUS LEAF

Yet another family favourite, we were awestruck by the Glutinous Rice with Boneless Chicken in Lotus Leaf (S$68++)—available as a á la carte dish and in their takeaway menu—not just because of the richness of flavours in the dish, but in the way that the dish was presented to us.

Before going ahead with the first bite, we were first greeted with a whiff of the warm spices and herbs which made the dish all the more appetising. Chef Eric also shared with us that the chicken is first deboned, stuffed with chestnuts, mushrooms and gingko nuts and deep-fried, before the entire bird is wrapped with fragrant glutinous rice and lotus leaf then steamed to impart a secondary level of flavour to the dish.

DOUBLE-BOILED HASHIMA IN WHOLE COCONUT

Last but most certainly not the least is the Double-boiled Hashima in Whole Coconut.

A sweet dessert soup comprising dried longans, lotus seeds, red dates and hashima, this dessert is the best way to end off the glorious meal with its nourishing ingredients and refreshing taste.

CHINESE NEW YEAR TAKEAWAY GOODIES

If you’ve planned for a feast at home,  InterContinental Singapore has got you covered with a delightful array of Chinese New Year goodies for takeaways that are ideal as gifts or for celebrations at home.

Until  2 March 2018, guests may select from a showcase of highlights such as the Man Fu Yuan Abundance Treasure Pot (S$398nett), and the Triple Happiness (S$598nett) feast comprising three of Man Fu Yuan’s signature dishes that are ideal for up to 10 guests.

Convey your well-wishes with the Opulence Gift Hamper (S$398nett) that features delicacies such as Superior Bird’s Nest, Abalone, Riondo Sesto Senso Prosecco, home-made Pineapple Tarts, Almond Cookies and Nian Gao.

For reservations, enquiries or to place an order, please call 6825 1131, email sinhb-festive@ihg.com, or visit InterContinentalShoppe.sg.

Mileslife is our favourite app to accumulate miles through everyday spending. You can earn miles for every dollar spent at this restaurant. Download and try Mileslife out now! You can use our code ‘Ladyironchef‘ upon your first spending to get 1,000 miles.

Man Fu Yuan
Level 2, InterContinental Singapore
80 Middle Road,
Singapore 188966
Tel: +65 6825 1131
Mon to Sat: 11.45am – 3pm, 6.30pm – 10.30pm
Sun: 11:30am – 3:15pm, 6.30pm – 10.30pm
Nearest Station: Bugis

This post was brought to you by InterContinental Singapore.

The annual celebration of Chinese New Year sees endless baked treats and other savoury delights being sold, served and consumed by Chinese communities in Singapore throughout the 15-day festive period.

Ever wondered why the exchange of Mandarin Oranges is so important, and why there would always be pineapple tarts in each home?

The repetition of Chinese New Year Goodies is no random occurrence, as each snack is essentially symbolic of a meaningful purpose. The next time someone in the family asks, “Why do we always have to eat xxx during Chinese New Year?”, you will find the answer(s) to him/her here in our beginner’s guide to the Auspicious Meaning Behind 8 Chinese New Year Goodies.

Read: Chinatown’s Chinese New Year Market 2016 – Here’s What To Expect.

#1 BAK KWA

Bak Kwa, for the uninitiated, is a barbecued pork jerky that is extremely popular amongst Chinese ethnic communities; especially so during Lunar New Year. The dialect name Bak Kwa when translated means dried meat. The barbecued pork jerky’s deep red colour is considered auspicious in Chinese tradition, symbolising good luck and believed to ward off negative energies.

#2 JIAO ZI DUMPLINGS

Back in the olden days, ancient Chinese civilians used an age-old currency called Yuan Bao that are inherently dumpling-shaped ingots in silver or gold. Today, the Jiao Zi Dumplings we eat bear an uncanny resemblance to Yuan Bao, hence symbolising wealth and profit. The tasty appetisers are also commonly eaten on birthdays and even during a casual meal.

#3 MANDARIN ORANGES

Mandarin Oranges are believed to bring prosperity thanks to its Cantonese pronunciation, which sounds similar to gold. It is part of Chinese New Year tradition to offer a pair of Mandarin Oranges to respected seniors and hosts during house visiting. Note that you can only give a pair, nothing more or less; two pairs is a ultimate taboo. This is because the total number of four sounds like the Chinese word for death.

#4 NIAN GAO CAKES

Nian Gao is a sticky rice cake and the direct translation of it literally means “year cake”. However, the word ‘gao’ also sounds like ‘high’ in Mandarin, hence the Chinese believes in eating these sweet steamed glutinous rice cake for it is symbolic of going to greater heights each year.

#5 PINEAPPLE TARTS

We seem to take the presence of Pineapple Tarts at every household during Chinese New Year for granted. But besides the obvious fact that it tastes heavenly, this buttery treat is well-loved for its Hokkien pronunciation “Ong Lai” – which actually means prosperity is arriving. Clearly, puns are the inspiration behind all these Chinese New Year goodies.

#6 POMELO FRUIT

The huge Asian citrus’ Cantonese name is similar to words related to prosperity and status, hence thought as a fruit that takes one on a prosperous journey. It is also symbolic of good health, fertility and family unity.

#7 TRAY OF TOGETHERNESS

A Tray Of Togetherness refers to the snack platter laid out at homes for visitors to munch on. It is usually a pentagon-shaped container with eight compartments – though many different forms are available too. The tray is filled with an assortment of sweets and savouries such as red melon seeds, bite-size candies or even preserved dry fruits.

Eight is believed to be an auspicious number among the Chinese and each snack symbolises a different meaning, i.e. red melon seeds represent happiness and longans are believed to bring one many sons.

#8 YU SHENG

Yu Sheng, otherwise known as Lo Hei, is an extremely popular Chinese New Year dish in Singapore. The raw fish salad is typically set up on a communal table and each ingredient constituting the yusheng is symbolic of their respective meaning(s). For example, the fish is seen as abundance aka wealth while shredded green radish represent eternal youth.

Read: Guide to Calories in 12 Popular Chinese New Year Goodies.

It is that time of the year again – Chinese New Year. The time of amazing food, quality time with family and overnight mahjong.

If you celebrate Chinese New Year in Singapore, you would know that house visiting is mostly a must, and you spend pretty much the whole day going from one house to another – to reconnect with relatives, have some food, and to collect or give out red packets.

With that, you will notice that everywhere you go, there are certain types of people and they are generally the same at every house. Here are 10 Types of People at A Chinese New Year Reunion Dinner.

#1 THE ‘HANGRY’ RELATIVE

If you do not already know what this popular term means, it is the fusion of two words ‘hungry’ and ‘angry’. There is definitely someone who will whine about why the food is not ready yet, or why there is not enough food. If you can relate to this, you are probably this person. Else, just go find this person some food!

#2 THE AUNT WHO HAS ‘NO FILTER’

You know it, we know it; well, she might not know it. But she is the (annoying) one who will constantly ask inappropriate questions about why your boyfriend is not at the gathering (even though you two recently broke up), why are you not married yet, or why you chose to take a gap year from University. Unfortunately, there is no way of avoiding her; she will find you and interrogation starts!

#3 THE AUNT WHO TALKS TOO MUCH

“My son is top in his class!” “Did you see this new designer handbag I got?” “Your food is a little salty, maybe you could…” Yup, she does not stop talking and yapping away and all you can do is sit politely and listen because she thinks her advice is golden.

#4 THE AWKWARD & QUIET COUSIN

There is always one person at every social situation who excludes himself or herself. They might just prefer to be alone, or are simply feeling too awkward to interact. Nevertheless, try walking up to them to strike a conversation!

#5 THE NOISY KIDS

Running around, throwing things, screaming – kids can be a handful, especially when the parents don’t even care. Then again, it is Chinese New Year and we will embrace the spirit of love and harmony.

#6 THE ONE WHO HATES CHINESE NEW YEAR

The downer. This person is basically the one who ruins everybody’s mood. He or she would be complaining about the festive songs, shows and decor, and they just basically look so bored and discontent with the gathering altogether.

#7 THE ONE WHO IS SLEEPY AND BORED

You can spot this person yawning while resting his or her head on the couch. This person does not necessarily hate Chinese New Year, they might just find family gatherings a little too much, especially when they have #2 or #3 around.

#8 THE ONE WHO LOVES CHINESE NEW YEAR

This person will be dressed head to toe like a red packet. He or she will jiving along to Chinese New Year music and most likely be the life of the party. Sounds like fun, but can be a pain if he/she is overly obsessed.

#9 THE RELATIVE WHO FORGETS YOUR NAME

The reason is simple – you see this person only once a year, and they will never remember your name. You just have to tell him/her whose kid you are, and they would go, “Ohhhhhhh!”

#10 THE SLEEPY UNCLE

There will always be an uncle of ours who would be dozing off on the couch, or just snoring away in the bedroom because, well, he is always sleepy.

Read: Here are some Chinese New Year 2016 Food Hacks You Need To Know Now.

About the writer:
Cheryl is a staff writer for ladyironchef. She loves a good steak and an even better cuppa. She eats just about anything and everything. In her free time, she regularly starts on sci-fi or fantasy movie marathons.

The 15-day long Chinese New Year festival is an annual spectacular fiesta in Singapore and 2016 is no exception. It is not just about the customary house visiting and red packet gifting – there is so much ongoing outside too! For starters, visit the Chinatown precinct and join in the good cheer; savour Lunar New Year goodies and photograph the flamboyant light show etc.

Venture beyond the neighbourhood of Chinatown to catch Asia’s largest street performance Chingay Parade and the various Huayi Festival performances at Esplanade Theatres on the Bay.

If Chinatown’s festive street bazaar is not for you, these are 3 Activities That You Can Enjoy For Chinese New Year 2016.

#1 CHINESE NEW YEAR COUNTDOWN PARTY

Every year, the Chinese New Year Countdown Party is something that we either take part in onsite, or watch on television.

Located at the heart of Chinatown, usher into the Year of the Monkey with vibrant live performances such as festive songs and interactive games hosted by MediaCorp artistes. There will be a stunning fireworks display as well!

When: 7 February 2016
Where: New Bridge Road and Eu Tong Sen Street

Source: Chingay

#2 CHINGAY PARADE

The annual Chingay Parade is a large-scale Lunar New Year event showcasing Singapore’s multicultural society.

Growing up, we would always gather around the television excitedly and wait for the live telecast. Today, we still enjoy watching the series of performances such as martial arts, dragon dance and street opera. This annual ticketed national event sure is a highlight of Chinese New Year.

The parade kickstarts at 8pm, and tickets on sale are priced at S$28.50 onwards.

When: 19 – 20 February 2016
Where: F1 Pit Building (Next to Singapore Flyer)

Source: Esplanade

#3 HUAYI, THE CHINESE FESTIVAL OF ARTS

Huayi, The Chinese Festival of Arts is held at the iconic Esplanade Theatres on the Bay across 10 days and showcases a myriad of outstanding performances by Chinese artistes from all over the world.

From Taiwanese choreographed robotic dance, Chinese household name Gong Linna’s concert to a Macbeth satire, it is performing arts at its finest.

When: 12 – 21 February 2016
Where: Esplanade Theatres on the Bay

For more recommendations, read our guide to 5 Fun Things To Do In Singapore This Chinese New Year.

About the writer:
Hui Jun Ng is a staff writer for ladyironchef. She previously worked in the food and marketing industry. She loves traveling and enjoys exploring underrated destinations. In her free time, you will find her indulging in coffee and her all time favourite local dish – bak chor mee.

Chinese New Year in Singapore is an annual affair like no other. Every year, we are treated to stunning light displays, and Chinatown truly lights up beautifully for the lunar festival. We can’t deny that we grew up looking forward to the different decorations and lights every year.

Besides going from house to house to call on our relatives and friends, there is actually so much you can do before or after the actual day, as the Lunar New Year spans across a total of 15 days.

Here, we have 5 Fun Things To Do This Chinese New Year 2016 in Singapore – time to jazz up the lunar new year!

1. CATCH THE LIGHTS AT CHINATOWN

To ring in the year of the monkey, Chinatown is all ready to stun with cute decor. Apart from your usual lights in reds and golds, Chinatown makes sure to entice every year with thematic displays. Of course, this means we are going to see lots of monkey figurines and wahtnot this year.

Where: New Bridge Road & Eu Tong Sen Street

2. EMBARK ON A CHINATOWN WALKING TRAIL

This complimentary trail is free for all and anyone can sign up. During Chinese New Year, you can experience the area in full swing as the bazaars come alive and the beautiful lights display comes on. Each trail is conducted in English only, and limited to 10 participants.

When: 23, 24, 30 & 31 January 2016
Time: 3.30pm – 5pm

3. ENJOY FESTIVE STREET BAZAARS

Visiting festive street bazaars is seriously one of our favourite things to do during the Chinese New Year period – not just to buy goodies, but to simply soak in the atmosphere. Enjoy great discounts on decorations, food and various snacks – but more than that, you can basically find anything you need for Chinese New Year at the bazaars.

When: 15 January – 07 February 2016
Time: 6pm – 10.30pm (Daily), 6pm – 1am (Chinese New Year’s Eve)
Where: Pagoda Street, Smith Street, Sago Street,Temple Street and Trengganu Street

Read: Chinatown’s Chinese New Year Market – Here’s what to expect.

4. CATCH THE 9TH INTERNATIONAL LION DANCE COMPETITION

Lion dance is an internationally recognised sport, and it is especially popular in Asia. Often associated with good luck and auspiciousness, Lion Dance is performed widely during Chinese New Year.

Hong Lim Park is where this year’s annual event will be hosted at, and you should make a trip down to enjoy the stunning performances on the two special days.

When: 23 & 24 January 2016
Time: 6pm – 11pm
Where: Hong Lim Park

5. WATCH NIGHTLY STAGE SHOWS

Kreta Ayer Square will host performances every night from 16 January to 07 Feb 2016. Get hyped for Chinese New Year and really put yourself in the spirit; these performances of vibrant Chinese cultural performances, festive songs, music and dance performances by local entertainers and troupes from China will sure liven the mood and get you all ready to celebrate the most anticipated Chinese festivity.

When: 16 January – 7 February 2016
Time: 8.00pm – 10.30pm
Where: Kreta Ayer Square

This year’s Chinese New Year Market is just like any other – full of yummy festive treats to bag home, and many other Chinese New Year-related decor and products. But we are seeing a lot more unique snacks and flavours this year that we have never encountered before.

As Singapore progresses along with food trends and the digital age, one-of-a-kind snacks and ideas are introduced to the annual market so as to constantly impress and excite.

We took a stroll down the different lanes and found some really interesting gems that are worth making a trip down for. If you are new to Singapore, you should also soak up the festive mood and experience the bustling annual market that Singaporeans love! Here is What To Expect At Chinatown’s Chinese New Year Market 2016.

The full market will start at the end of January, where the market will operate in its full glory and all stalls will run in full force. However, if you head down now, most stalls are already open and in business – great for early shopping and getting everything done on time, minus the crowd!

Besides the plethora of snacks, you can do your Chinese New Year decor shopping here. Look at these whopping low prices of S$1 and three for S$10.

This is something that our moms always go to Chinatown for. We used to diss it, but as we grow older, we become more sentimental about many things and these red whatnots actually get to us. Let’s hope that this lunar spirit never die, and no matter how modernisation takes place, Chinese New Year will always look like how they traditionally look.

The same festive feel and spirit can be felt all through the market, and the market will liven up a lot more once the actual Chinese New Year day draws closer.

These fruit jellies are commonly seen every year, but we saw some pretty unique flavours besides the regular plum ones this year.

We have matcha, chocolates and coffee flavoured ones that originate from Taiwan, and because these fruit jellies are ever popular snacks among guests, we are gonna stock up on them in the new flavours.

Thinking of shopping for your regular Chinese New Year snacks? We suggest coming right to this store here (you will not be able to miss it, it takes up a very large area) where they sell snacks packaged in different sizes.

But of course, based on our observation, these become way cheaper on Chinese New Year Eve. They will slash the prices like crazy just to clear their stocks!

Stalls that sell seeds and munchies are aplenty, and prices are pretty much controlled and standardised, so you really can pick these up conveniently anywhere at almost the same prices.

This is probably the most unique stall at this year’s market.

We stopped in our tracks when we read ‘Sour Cream Cashew Nuts’. Being avid fans of buttery cashew nuts, these were the answer to our prayers. Such a pleasant surprise this was, and it is probably going to be our favourite snack this Chinese New Year!

It is best to start walking from Pagoda Street where the market starts from. Pretty easy to spot if you are taking the train and exiting from Chinatown MRT Station.

The market extends all the way to Smith Street, Sago Street, Temple Street and Trengganu Street, as well as the neighbouring lanes on either sides of Pagoda Street. However, the main market – where majority of the stalls are- is located at Pagoda Street and Temple Street.

Chinese New Year is approaching and for many countries in Asia, it is a huge celebration. These countries, including Singapore, throw grand parades and huge celebrations in conjunction with this annual event.

Chinese New Year celebrates the start of a new year according to the Chinese Lunar calendar. The festivity spans over a period of 15 days and during these 15 days, there will be various parades and celebrations all over for the whole family to enjoy and participate in.

Here, we have 5 Chinese New Year Parades and Events in Asia to Catch in 2016 - from massive fireworks display to big-scale night parades!

Image: Vprazdniki

1. BEIJING

Chinese New Year is a big thing in China and everywhere, not just in Beijing, throw huge and impressive celebrations. In Beijing, there will be a magnificent fireworks display over the capital city. Also, many will light their own fireworks all around the city to liven up the atmosphere.

Over the course of 15 days, fireworks can be seen daily, and every day, there will be various temple fairs where you can taste local food and partake in fun games and activities.

Image: Fest300

2. HONG KONG

The main highlight of Chinese New Year in Hong Kong is the popular Chinese New Year Night Parade.

Held in Tsim Sha Tsui, the streets will light up and transform into a fun street party. The whole harbour front area will be lit up so beautifully, it is one sight you will not soon forget. This is a hallmark event of Hong Kong – one not to be missed if you are heading there for Chinese New Year!

Image: Wikimedia

3. MALAYSIA

Malaysia is by and large a Muslim country, and Chinese New Year is not celebrated as grandly as countries like China. However, parties and celebrations will still be held by the Chinese citizens of the country.

There will be acrobatic shows and lion dance performances at major temples and areas in Kuala Lumpur during this period as well.

Image: Your Singapore

4. SINGAPORE

Every year, Singapore glows with streets decorated with bright lights and Chinese New Year-themed decor. Expect various celebrations across major areas such as Chinatown, but the main fun happens at River Hongbao – an event held annually at the Floating Platform at Marina Bay.

There will be various live entertainment, alongside local food stalls and other activities that the whole family can enjoy!

Image: New Years Eve Blog

5. TAIWAN

The main attraction in Taipei during Chinese New Year is the parade that starts from Anxing Street that covers the whole city.

You get to see Chinese acrobats, musicians, martial art experts and folk dancers performing in this parade, including the iconic dragon dance. The fireworks display during Chinese New Year is also another massive event not to be missed.