Today kicks off the Year of the Water Tiger! Chinese New Year is one of my favorite holidays and each year I look forward to the various traditions, foods, and meanings associated with the Spring Festival. 

The Tiger is the third animal of the Chinese zodiac and the symbol of bravery, courage, and strength. Tigers are ambitious, but they’re also extremely generous with a drive to help others. Tigers want to win, but they’re also always seeking justice. Water Tigers are family-oriented and have wonderful interpersonal relationships. If you were born in 1926, 1938,1950, 1962, 1974, 1986 (that’s me!), 1998, or 2010 then you’re the Year of the Tiger! 

No matter which zodiac sign you are, during the Year of the Tiger you’ll feel emboldened to make big changes, take risks, and seek adventure. This is a year for switching careers, building teams, or getting back into creative projects. It’s also about finding enthusiasm again, both for ourselves and for others. Whatever you do, when you embody the spirit of the Tiger, you’ll be rewarded. 

During the next 15 days, the focus is centered around increasing your family’s fortune, health, and prosperity for the year ahead. Whether it’s the foods you eat, the colors that you wear (hint: red), or the money that you exchange - there are a variety of ways to participate in the Lunar New Year festivities! 

• Eat dumplings for good fortune, noodles for longevity, and fish for wealth. 

• Visit the Met’s special collection of ancient Chinese Tigers curated in honor of the Lunar New Year. 

• Attend the Chinese New Year Parade in San Francisco on Feb 19th. 

• Play Pokemon Go and catch a special new character!  

• Explore the Huntington’s Garden of Flowing Fragrance, which is one of the finest classical-style Chinese gardens outside of China. 

• Dream during Disneyland’s special Chinese New Year celebration featuring Tigger, Mulan, and more!

• Admire the London Zoo’s new baby Sumatran tiger cub - he’s grrrrrreat! 

• Support the AAPI community by donating to #stopasianhate and shop at AAPI businesses in your community during the Spring Festival. 

• Save the Tigers by donating to the WWF’s “Save Tigers Now” campaign to support conservation efforts and protect Tigers worldwide. Leonardo DiCaprio is a co-sponsor of the campaign - he’s also the year of the Tiger!

Lastly, many brands have released special collections in honor of the Year of the Tiger. Below is a roundup of festive products so that you can ring in the Lunar New Year in style.

However you choose to celebrate this Chinese New Year, I hope it’s filled with wealth, health, and happiness!

Gong hei fat choy!
Sarah