Staff at The Great Wall Chinese Restaurant in Market Street, Carlisle, are ready for Year of the Monkey which lasts until January 27, 2017.
The Chinese zodiac follows a 12-year cycle, 11 of the years being named after an animal, the other being Year of the Dragon.
The Chinese believe that people born in a particular year take on the characteristics of the beast associated with that year.
Chris Redhead, who runs The Great Wall, said: “Traditionally a Chinese family would sit down on New Year’s Eve and make dumplings and then eat them.
“There are a variety of fillings – pork, beef, lamb, prawn, carrot and vegetable. We sell them in our shop and they are popular.”
Families usually gather around a round table and share food. A steamed fish is usually on the table as part of the celebrations.
Chinese people generally wear something bright to celebrate new year, like red or orange clothing. This brings good luck.
People buy orange trees to symbolise luck, and peach trees for good luck, good health and prosperity. Houses are hung with lanterns and charms and banners proclaiming good luck wishes.
Children are given red pouches filled with money.
Mr Redhead said: “The red pouches usually contain a coin and they are given to children as a symbol of good luck.”
Lanterns are also released into the sky to mark new year.
“It’s a colourful time,” said Mr Redhead.
The personality of the Monkey
- People born in the Year of the Monkey are characterised as quick-witted, curious, innovative and mischievous, but it is also believed to be one of the most unlucky years in the Chinese calendar.
The general image of people in this zodiac sign is of always being smart, clever and intelligent, especially in their career and wealth. They are lively, flexible, quick-witted and versatile. In addition, their gentleness and honesty bring them an everlasting love life. Although they were born with enviable skills, they still have several shortcomings, such as an impetuous temper and a tendency to look down upon others. Strengths: sociable, innovative, enthusiastic, self-assured. Weaknesses: suspicious, cunning, selfish, arrogant, jealous.
- Lucky Signs for the Monkey Lucky numbers: 1, 7, 8
- Lucky colours: white, gold, blue Lucky flowers: chrysanthemum, alliums Lucky directions: north, northwest, west
- Some famous people born under the monkey sign: Julius Caesar, Leonardo da Vinci, Charles Dickens, Lord Byron, Celine Dion, Tom Hanks, Will Smith, Halle Berry, Christina Aguilera, Diana Ross, Elizabeth Taylor, Alice Walker, Michael Douglas, Owen Wilson, Daniel Craig, Mick Jagger, Bette Davis, Cuba Gooding Jr, Kim Cattrall and Patricia Arquette.
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