The Year of the Dog

As the year of the rooster ends, the year of the dog begins. The Spring Festival, which began on Feb. 16, officially marked the beginning of the Chinese New Year. Between then and March 2, festivities celebrating the new year are held. Each of the first ten days recognize something different, from the day of the human to the day of the millet, with each consisting of various traditions.

With 2017 having been the year of the rooster, 2018 marks the year of the dog. The dog is the eleventh of twelve Chinese zodiac animals. It falls between the year of the rooster and the pig. The dog represents xū, the eleventh Earthly Branch, which determined the zodiac order. Likewise, the dog is often associated with yang. Yin and Yang are divided, with Yin representing: dark, night, and femininity, and Yang representing: light, day, and masculinity. Neither Yin nor Yang are absolute and both work together to form harmony.

According to tradition, the dog is seen as a loyal creature, making it one of its most favorable attributes. They will support their friends and family unconditionally and whole-heartedly. Likewise, they are honest and fair in their actions. If someone is in need of help in making a decision, it is advised for them to have a dog to aid with any dilemma. Unfortunately, dogs are also recognized for being anxious and tense. But despite this temperamental mood, they will persevere through whatever the task ahead is.

The last time the year of the dog correlated with the element of earth was in 1958. These dogs are seen as being stubborn and driven. When they set out to do something they will not stop until it is completed. Women born in a year of the dog are attentive and men are seen as being genuine.

Like the Western New Year, Chinese New Year represents a time of new beginnings and hope for an even brighter future. But other than their shared symbolism, each have distinct aspects that make them unique, possibly the most recognized being the date on which the new year falls. This is a result of the Chinese New Year being based upon the Lunar calendar and its Western counterpart being based upon the Solar calendar. While China follows the Gregorian calendar for civil purposes, the Lunar calendar is used to determine its distinct festivals.

Additionally, the food consumed on the two new years is seen as significant by both, yet the types of food and the celebratory traditions vary. In the West, parties are often held on New Year’s Eve and people often watch the ball drop signifying the stroke of midnight. In countries that recognize the Chinese New Year, New Year’s Eve is often celebrated by having a big family dinner and then spending the remainder of the night playing games together.

Chinese New Year is a unique and meaningful celebration that has continued as a tradition for thousands of years. With its own customs and folklore, the festivities include many diverse aspects, including the recognizable fireworks and the lantern festival. So 新年快乐 (happy New Year)!