Chinese New Year - the Seventh day

Today is the Seventh day of Chinese New Year, a day traditionally known as Rénrì (人日, the common man's birthday), the day when everyone grows one year older. It is celebrated not only in China, but also in other regions influenced by Chinese culture. Some traditional families serve Misua, a Chinese type of angel hair noodle, or noodles to ensure long life.

It is a fine day this Renri, Human day. Legend has it that if the weather on Renri is fine, it can be forecast that God will grant good luck to all people on earth. Fireworks and Hua Pao (花炮) are lit, so Renri celebrates the "birthday" of fire as well. (Wikipedia)


Here in Malaysia and Singapore, Chinese restaurants would be fully-booked as it is an auspicious day to 'lou sang' with family and friends. People get together to toss the colorful raw fish salad, yee sang or yusheng in Mandarin, and make wishes for continued wealth and prosperity.

Families continue to visit relatives and friends bringing with them Mandarin oranges (at least) and other goodies in a tradition of fostering goodwill and family ties. It is customary for gifts to be exchanged especially the Mandarin oranges. Children are happiest collecting hongbao or gifts of money in red envelopes.

Happy Renri, everyone!


Related articles:
- Chinese New Year eve - the Reunion dinner
- Chinese New Year - the First day
- Chinese New Year - the Second day
- Chinese New Year - the Third day
- Chinese New Year - the Fourth day
- Chinese New Year - the Fifth day
- Chinese New Year - the Sixth day