Chinese New Year: Let the ox work for you

The Chinese Year of the Ox begins on January 26 with the appearance of the new moon. As in many other parts of the world, some Dubai residents too will ring in the Chinese New Year by exchanging gifts and hosting parties.

And while many parties and celebrations have been planned to usher in the New Year, few know how to prepare for it.

Here are some pointers to help you start the Year of The Ox on a good note.

RED RAGE

For starters, clean your home thoroughly. Red festoons are a must as red is the most auspicious colour for the occasion.

LOOK YOUR BEST

If you haven't had a haircut, it's time to have one now. Pick up new clothes in red prints from any of the DSF participating outlets. But if you are on a tight budget because of the recession, you could do well by mixing and matching some striking shades from your existing wardrobe.

LAYING THE TABLE

Red should not be just the colour of your dress, but also of your table cloth and napkins. Check out Home Centre at the Mall of The Emirates for their special offers.

Put a Chun Lian (special Chinese couplets) outside your door. It is said that the verses in the couplets bring luck and fortune to the home.

LIGHTING UP

For good bargains on Chinese lanterns, drive down to the Dragon Mart. Make sure you have some return gifts for the kids. Hongbao (red packets), also available at the Dragon Mart, make for pefect gifts. These packets are filled with money and given to children as they symbolise luck and wealth.

FOOD WORD

Food carries great importance throughout the celebration. Fish represents abundance and togetherness, while chicken symbolises prosperity. The cake made with rice flour and dried fruits is another essential part of the festivities. It is sent to relatives and friends for domestic bliss.

WHO IS THE OX?

People born under this sign are very patient and speak little but are also eloquent when required. They get angry very easily and when opposed their fierce temper comes to the fore. Though they are easy-going, they could also be very stubborn.

Years: 1913, 1925, 1937, 1949, 1961, 1973, 1985, 1997.

Events around town

Year of the ox party

A unique cultural experience awaits you at this New Year party on January 31. There will be loads of activities for kids, including a traditional Lion dance and a special Chinese lunch buffet.

Where: Capital Club, Bldg 3, DIFC, from 12-3pm. For details, log on to www.silk-path.com

Grab a bargain

The Dragon Mart is hosting a slew of activities as part of the Chinese New Year celebrations. A car boot sale at the International City on Friday is also part of the event.

Where: Opposite Nakheel Asset Management Office, China Cluster