Eat dumplings, watch a comedy show, and dance in the streets of Singapore.
Across the world, people are preparing to welcome the Year of the Rat. The first of the 12 zodiac signs, the rat is said to symbolize new beginnings. On January 25, the year will kick off with more than two weeks of events that honor Chinese culture and values, and welcome health and prosperity in the days ahead.
Below, five ways to celebrate:
Eat for prosperity at Nobu
January 11 to February 2
The Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia location of the Michelin-starred sushi restaurant created a special menu to celebrate the New Year. Enjoy a Prosperity Platter with salmon, yellowtail, and tuna sashimi, served with a vibrant assortment of vegetables like asparagus, radish, and red cabbage. Finish your meal with the “God of Wealth,” a dessert of white chocolate mousse and pineapple-yuzu curd.
Experience the Chingay Parade
January 31 to February 1
Said to be the largest parade in Asia, this Singapore celebration is the essential destination for anyone looking to experience the colorful, energetic spirit of the holiday. On the night of January 31, watch dragons, dancers, and acrobats flood the waterfront, culminating in a light show and fireworks display.
See dragon boat races
February 1 to 2
More than 3,000 racers paddle 40-foot dragon boats across Cockle Bay in Sydney for this annual event. The two-day regatta features more than 100 races. Before the competition begins, Taoist monks bless the waters, and dot an eye of red paint on each boat to “awaken the dragons.”
Celebrate the works of Chinese artists
February 3 to 23
After a successful opening last year, London's Chinese Arts Now Festival is back. The event spans theaters and venues across the city, honoring Chinese-British culture and performance. Watch standup comedian Nigel Ng, hear personal tales of immigration from poet Yu Yoyo, and see performances from some of the UK’s finest classical Chinese musicians.
Visit a dumpling food festival
February 9
Traditionally, dumplings are eaten at midnight to symbolize wealth and longevity for the new year. But the bite-sized staples also make plenty of appearances at other times throughout the celebrations. Try takes on shumai (traditional Chinese dumplings), har gow (Cantonese dumplings), xiaolongbao (soup dumplings), and more at Dumpling Down in San Francisco. Afterward, cleanse your palate with kumquat mimosas and a selection of Chinese beers.