It’s that time of the year again when the Chinese calender marks the Lunar New Year.  Also known as the Spring festival,  because it marks the beginning of spring, Chinese New Year is the most celebrated festivals in the world. Celebrations will take place all across Asia and everywhere there is a significant Chinese population.

Each Chinese year is assigned an animal symbol, 2009 is the year of the ox which symbolizes hard work and fortitude that can lead to prosperity.

In the Chinese zodiac, people who are born in the Year of the Ox are considered as calm and dependable as their animal symbol. Not only are they modest but they are able to bear nearly any amount of hardship without complaint. Logical and systematic to the point of having little imagination, an ox person with their mind made up is rarely dissuaded from their decision. Because of their honesty and patience, these people are always welcome and typically have many friends who appreciate their quiet but relaxed sociability.

There will be many festivities throughout Thailand with the largest taking place in Bangkok’s China town. Many people will take part in rituals to cleanse themselves of bad luck and to honor their ancestors. Fake money and gifts will be burned in offerings to the departed to help them prosper in the after life.

The Thailand Tourist Authority is hoping this will be the beginning of a turn around in low tourism numbers. It’s estimated Chinese New Year will draw some 500, 000 tourists ( mostly Chinese ) and bring in around 550 million baht ( 14.3 million dollars ).

China is said to be sending over 200 performers from 7 cities to perform shows across Thailand during the lunar New Year.

The symbol of the Ox is seen as a fortuitous sign that with hard work we can pull out of this global economic mess. I truly hope that’s true.

Wherever you are in the world I hope you have a chance to partake in the Chinese New Year celebrations and I also hope you have a safe, happy and healthy New Year.