Chinese New Year
In 2013, Chinese New Year falls on 10 February. While it may still be a bit chilly outside, there'll be plenty of celebration to warm things up! Festivities traditionally take place around the historic Nieuwmarkt neighbourhood and in 2012, that meant the inaugural edition of the Asian Food Festival.
Gong Xi Fa Cai! (Happy New Year!)
Chinese New Year, also known as the Lunar New Year, is the most important event in the Chinese calendar. It’s a special occasion whichever part of the world you’re in, and nearly always marked by family gatherings, food rituals, offerings at temples and the colour red.
The superstitious will particularly enjoy Chinese New Year’s Eve, when a raw fish salad (yu sheng) is said to bring good luck and fai-hai, a type of seaweed, prosperity. (The vegetarian option is lettuce, which the Chinese believe sounds like 'luck').
A taste of China
If you’re looking for something more intimate, retreat to the Fo Guang Shan He Hua, a real Buddhist temple which has a special programme. Alternatively, grab yourself a meal deal at the Sea Palace (Europe’s first floating Chinese restaurant) or at one of the many Chinese restaurants along Stormsteeg and Geldersekade.
Asian Food Festival
A new event for 2012 was the Asian Food Festival, which took place on the Nieuwmarkt. As well as diverse flavours from all across Asia, there were special New Year celebrations, such as a contemporary dragon dance group from China. There were no fireworks but visitors were certainly treated to a sensory assault of smells, flavours and bright colours that represent the celebratory spirit of Chinese New Year.
Amsterdam celebrates
Chinese New Year is not only a special time for the Chinese community in Amsterdam. It also provides a unique spectacle for the broader Amsterdam population. The video below captures some of the excitement experienced during previous celebrations on the Nieuwmarkt.
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