Chinese New Year is a special time filled with joy, tradition, and family connections, particularly among Chinese communities worldwide. Known as the Spring Festival or Lunar New Year, these celebrations span 15 lively days filled with customs, food, and family reunions.
In 2025, we welcome the Year of the Wood Snake, a time associated with good luck, resilience, and transformation. This unique year influences how communities around the globe celebrate new beginnings and the aspirations they hold dear.
The Sadana Center celebrations perfectly capture these themes. Annually, we organize an event that unites students, families, and friends to celebrate the happiness of tradition and the aspiration for a bright future.
A Culinary Journey into Abundance
During our celebration, we enjoy various foods, but when you celebrate according to tradition, the food takes on a different significance.
Traditional dishes such as dumplings are crucial for their association with longevity, while noodles represent a long life. A whole fish, symbolizing abundance, is frequently featured on the table, accompanied by tangerines, garlic, and red desserts that provide a lively burst of color and signify good luck.
The Red envelopes "hung bao"
The significance of red envelopes, called “hung bao,” cannot be overlooked. Typically containing money as a blessing, these envelopes encourage wealth and prosperity for the upcoming year.
To uphold the tradition, students and friends of the Sadana Center offer a “hung bao” to honor Shifu's ancestors and wish prosperity for his family.
Ward Off Evil Spirits with the Resonant Power of the Gong
As the celebrations continue, the air fills with excitement. Fireworks and the striking sound of gongs are crucial parts of the festivities. Historically, these elements were used to scare away evil spirits like the Nian monster, believed to come out at the end of the Lunar New Year. The loud noises were thought to be an effective way to keep this half-dragon, half-lion creature at bay.
Traditionally, Master Shifu Orlando Schiaffino invites his mother to strike the gong 12 times, representing the 12 animals of the Chinese zodiac and to dispel negative energies.
The Importance of Rituals and Family Gatherings
Chinese New Year is an event that amplifies the sense of community at the Sadana Center.
This evening isn't just about eating; it is filled with rituals and respect. Families honor their ancestors by offering flowers, fruits, tea, and wine, along with other heartfelt tokens. Such gestures show deep gratitude for lineage and the collective journey undertaken by their families.
In welcoming the new year, practitioners engage in Tai Chi and Qigong, forms of exercise that also connect them to their culture. Both practices offer paths to healing and wellness that resonate throughout the Sadana Center community.
The Lantern Festival which falls on February 13, 2025, marks the grand finale of the celebrations, celebrated with lively parades and beautifully decorated lanterns illuminating the night. The rhythmic beats of drums create an atmosphere of joy and unity among participants.
The Significance of the Year of the Wood Snake
With the Lantern Festival concluded, the lunar calendar embarks on a new chapter. The Year of the Wood Snake prompts feelings of renewal and flexibility. The wood element encourages nourishment and personal growth, inviting everyone to let go of the old and embrace fresh opportunities.
Celebrating Together
We are thrilled to celebrate the Chinese New Year, Year of the Wood Snake, with all our students, family, and friends.
This event promises an unforgettable evening, creating a joyful atmosphere for the Chinese New Year Festival, featuring traditional performances, delicious food, games, music, raffles, prizes, a Year of the Snake photo booth for family photos and memory-making, and engaging activities.
Whether you're a long-time enthusiast or new to the festivities at Sadana Center, there's something for everyone to enjoy. Don't miss this vibrant celebration—get your tickets now and join us for a night of joy, culture, and community!
Year of the Wood Snake Celebration!
Wednesday, February 5th at 6:00 PM - 9:00 PM
Gong Hey Fat Choy!
Happy Chinese New Year!
Love & Qi healing!
Shifu Orlando & Simo Ana
Comments