On 29 January 2025, the new Lunar New Year ushered in the Year of Snake with vibrant colours, hospitality, and goodwill. The Lunar New Year is one of the most significant events in Chinese culture, and its broader appeal saw much joy and excitement from the celebrations throughout our homes.
Also known as the Chinese New Year or Spring Festival, the Lunar New Year spans 16 days and is rich in cultural traditions. It includes decorating with lucky red items such as lanterns, giving red envelopes known as hongbao, and feasting on auspicious foods. Beyond its festivities, the Lunar New Year is a time for community, renewal, and hope, bringing people together to celebrate with optimism for the future.
Our residents at McQuoin Park Wahroonga got into the spirit of the celebration by sampling yum cha, followed by a selection of Chinese desserts and cakes. Residents of Chinese heritage joined in with a special guest performer to sing in Cantonese.
Not to be outdone, St Joseph’s Hunters Hill residents were invited to attend an auspicious lunch followed by a Chinese dance performance. At the same time, MacKillop House welcomed the Snake into their home with a special Lion Dance. The residents enjoyed yum cha and the making of lucky fortune envelopes and Chinese lanterns, as well as a special viewing of the movie Shanghai Knights.
Five Fun Facts about the Year of the Snake 2025
- What to expect in The Year of the Snake: The Year of the Snake represents transformation, wisdom, and personal growth. The snake is associated with intelligence, mystery, and renewal.
- Born in the Year of the Snake: People born in the Year of the Snake are often considered charismatic, intelligent, and artistic but can be viewed as cunning and mysterious.
- Lucky Numbers, Colours, and Flowers: The lucky numbers are 2, 8, and 9. The lucky colours are red, light yellow, and black, and the lucky flowers are orchids and cacti.
- Lucky Directions: The lucky directions are northeast, southwest, and south.
- Compatibility: Snakes are highly compatible with the Ox and Rooster.
Kung Hei Fat Choi (Happy New Year) and Hao Yun (good fortune) to our residents, clients, and their families from Catholic Healthcare!