Philippines is not a Chinese country but the number of citizens who has Chinese blood grew since each country used to barter with each other decades ago. We were able to embrace some of their tradition. One of the most popular is the Chinese New Year which follow the lunar calendar. Lunar calendar follows the movement of the moon. Usually Chinese New Year falls on a January or February.
Chinese months begin with new moon, and have a full moon on day 15. As a new moon comes roughly every 29½ days, Chinese calendar months always have 29 or 30 days.
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But how does FilChi celebrate their New Year ?
1. Receiving/giving "Ampao"( Red Money Envelope)
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As a kid, I always remember receiving "ang pao" before the Chinese New Year. This usually given to kids or unmarried by parent, an elderly relative, boss or from a wealthy family friend to bring goodluck. This envelope is stuffed with crisp bank notes with even number denominations.
2. Dragon or Lion Dance
Lion Dance
Both dances brings goodluck to businesses and establishment where it perform. Lion dances were performed by two person while dragon dance will require many performers. The latter believes it represent to have great power, dignity, fertility, wisdom and auspiciousness
Dragon Dance
3. Tikoy!!
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Also known as Nian Go. The name was adapted from Hokkien/Fujian "ti" which means sweet and "ke" which means cake. Dessert food which usually serve for festival.
"Tikoy" is a rice cake made by glutinous rice. This can be cook by slicing it as thin as you can. and dipped it with egg then fry.
4. Wearing Anything Red
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Red represent joy and good fortune by wearing them as believed by the elderly.
This are traditions that my family practices. It doesn't guarantee your futures prosperity and fortune. This are just guides that you can follow but your faith will still relies on you.
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