During the winter, one of the most fun things to do in Philadelphia is participate in the Chinese New Year celebrations. Whether you have participated in the celebration in the past or want to give it a shot this year, here are a few fun facts to prepare you for the festivities:
- The 12-year zodiac cycle. You may have heard the upcoming new year is the “Year of the Rooster,” but you may not know the year is decided by a 12-year cycle of animals. The most recent “Year of the Rooster” occurred in 2005.
- The festival is celebrated by a fifth of the world’s population. There are public holidays in 12 Asian countries, including China, the Philippines, and Singapore. Chinese students even get a month off from school for the celebration!
- It’s strangely known as Spring Festival. While there is certainly plenty of cold weather remaining, the holiday symbolizes the end of the most frigid temperatures.
- It is 15 days long! The celebration doesn’t stop after midnight on the 28th. Nothing better than two weeks of festivities!
Now that you’re prepped with knowledge about Chinese New Year, check out some of the fun things to do in Philadelphia for the New Year.
- PCDC’s New Year Banquet (February 3) – Celebrate the Year of the Rooster at Ocean City Restaurant in Chinatown! The Philadelphia Chinatown Development Corporation will host this great event, with all proceeds supporting its work and mission.
- Chinese New Year at Reading Terminal (February 4 from 8 a.m. to 6 p.m.) – come out to Reading Terminal Market for a celebration like none other! Experience the presentation of the new Chinese New Year stamp, a craft sale, spring roll-making demonstrations, and more!
Whether you’re just hanging around the city to experience the celebration first-hand or attending one of these events, don’t forget to stop by Geno’s Steaks for the best cheesesteak in the city!