February 12, 2021 is Chinese New Year's Day.  This year, it is represented by the 2nd animal in the Chinese Zodiac, the Ox.  The Ox wanted to be first, but was out smarted by the Rat, who rode on his back and when he arrived at the gate, jumped off putting him in first place!

So goes the legend of this Chinese New Year animal.

The Year of the Ox  2021 is a Metal Ox and people born in the year of the Ox are honest and earnest. They are low key and never look for praise or to be the centre of attention. This often hides their talent, but they will gain recognition through their hard work.

The oulook for 2021 is "a positive and productive year where hard work is rewarded,”  “It’s also an excellent year for having a child, starting a family, and marriage for the Ox.”  The Ox has paid its dues and is ready to enjoy the hard-won results.

Eating dumplings and noodles at New Years brings good luck.  So if you're attending a Chinese New Year's Feast, be sure to toast your friends with a Cheers!  In Chinese it's  "Gan bei! "   But there are also toasting "rules".  Toasting goes in order of rank and age at the table. Always hold your glass in the right hand and support with your left. When clinking glasses with someone higher that you in age or rank,make sure your glass is always lower than theirs.

 Are you an Ox?   You are if born in   1937, 1949, 1961, 1973, 1985, 1997, 2009.

If you're interested in trying some Chinese alcoholic beverages, or products with the Bull or Ox featured on them,  we have a selction available in the store!   

Gan bei!

Source:   from the websites  chinesenewyear.net and rd.com/list/chinese-zodiac-2021