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Noodles (representing longevity), a whole fish (the Chinese word for fish is similar to the word for prosperity), and spring rolls, which resemble a golden bar when fried, are all often on
the table, Kang says. His family's spread typically includes a whole steamed fish, noodles and dumplings and — if they're feeling “extra splurgy” — a Peking duck. For dessert, tang
yuan — similar to a mochi ball, and often stuffed with sesame, red bean or lotus paste — is said to bring good fortune. Certain fruits and candies are also part of the tradition, Kang says.
Citrus fruits — tangerines, pomelos and oranges — have a golden hue and a round fullness to symbolize wealth. Learn more about Lunar New Year food traditions through this virtual event
organized by the Smithsonian's National Museum of Asian Art. RED AND GOLD FOR AN AUSPICIOUS LUNAR NEW YEAR Red and gold bring good luck. Red is festive and bold to scare off bad luck,
and gold was the color of the emperor, symbolizing prosperity, Smith says. People often wear red for Lunar New Year. For an added boost, some might invest in red underwear to continue
wearing red in some form all year long, Lee says. Printed signs and banners, typically red with gold lettering, emblazoned with lucky couplets or phrases can be hung all over the house, says
Joanne Kwong, president of New York City-based Pearl River Mart, an emporium that features everything from furnishings to food with an Asian influence. Others like to decorate with the
year's zodiac animal — this year the ox — or with paper lanterns or red infinity knots to draw good energy. If you're looking to make your own decorations this year, the Museum of
Chinese in America created a video that demonstrates how to make paper flowers and beads for a Lunar New Year home makeover. Older people and married couples also usually give out red
envelopes filled with cash to children and unmarried singles, Kwong says. “Luck begets luck, so the more good wishes and cash you give, the more you will be lucky,” she says. You can easily
make your own red envelopes at home. And if you want to scare away the evil spirits, try decorating with dragons, investing in some firecrackers, or making your own party cracker. VIRTUAL
LUNAR NEW YEAR EVENTS While some Lunar New Year events may be altered this year because of the pandemic, there's no shortage of ways to enjoy the holiday virtually. The live version of
the annual San Francisco Chinese New Year Parade is moving online, with a parade special on Feb. 20 at 6 p.m. The Chinese Chamber of Commerce in San Francisco is also unveiling 11 life-size
oxen, including one sponsored by AARP, to be publicly displayed across the city through March 14.