CHINESE NEW YEAR PARTY
Somerset County seniors were invited to join the fun of a free Chinese New Year celebration held at the Somerset County Senior Wellness Center in Bridgewater on Wednesday, Jan. 25. Entertainment included line dancing, Tai Chi, a martial arts demonstration, a musical performance, and educational information about the Chinese New Year.
Participants had the opportunity to practice Tai Chi and dance the Mayim-Mayim, which is an Israeli dance adopted by Asians. The Hulusi (gourd flute) solo performance and a sword-drawing demonstration will captivate any audience. Seniors will also learn fascinating facts about the Chinese New Year.
A lunch with an Asian Flair was served. Including: Chicken & Vegetable Dumplings, Vegetable (edamame) Dumplings, Roast Beef with Provolone Cheese Sandwich, Tomato, Arugula, Cheddar Cheese & Pesto Sandwich
All senior centers offer a nutritionally balanced lunch at noon, Monday through Friday. The menu choices include both hot and cold lunches, with and without meat. Lunch reservations should be made by 10 a.m. the day before attending. There is a suggested lunch donation of $2.50 for anyone ages 60 and above. For seniors less than 60 years of age, the cost is $8.07.
To learn more about the Somerset County Senior Wellness Centers, call 908-704-6346 or email OfficeAging@co.somerset.nj.us.
About the Chinese New Year
The Chinese New Year is a 15-day festival that Chinese communities celebrate globally. The holiday is often called the Lunar New Year because it follows the phases of the moon. This year it begins on Jan. 21 and ends on Feb. 20, or until the next full moon.
This year is called “Year of the Rabbit because the Chinese New Year coincides with the Chinese Zodiac sign the rabbit.There is a repeating zodiac cycle lasting 12 years, with each year representing a zodiac animal that has special attributes. In the Chinese culture, the Rabbit is a symbol of longevity, peace, and prosperity. People born in the year of the Rabbit are called “Rabbits” and are believed to be vigilant, witty, quick-minded, and ingenious.
