Feast of the Boar

On Chinese New Years Eve (today), families will hold a reunion dinner where members near and far celebrate together. The majority of foods eaten are homonyms to words relating to prosperity and wealth, symbolizing the positive hopes for the new year.

A traditional dinner includes chicken and fish. Only part of the fish will be eaten, the remainder saved overnight to symbolize a wealthy coming year. This practice comes from the Chinese phrase nián nián yǒu yú, meaning "may there be surplus every year." The phrase sounds similar to "may there be fish every year." Via Wikipedia.

Other foods that might be found on the dinner table tonight include Buddha's Delight, a vegetarian dish that contains anywhere from 10 to 35 ingredients. For the new year, a version of this dish called Luóhàn quánzhāi (made from 18 ingredients) is served. Much like curry, each family has its own unique recipe.

Another dish might be dumplings, as it is believed the shape resembles ingots (gold Chinese money from the past). Oranges are also popular during the New Year as they are plentiful in China during this season and symbolize wealth and good fortune.

If you wish to join in on the festivities, below are more resources on foods to feast on.

Chinese New Year Eve Dinner: