The turn of the Chinese Calendar is dictated by the new moon of the lunar each year. This year it falls on February 8, and we will be welcoming in the Year of the Monkey.
 
The Monkey, which symbolizes cleverness in Chinese Culture, is the ninth of the 12 animals in the Chinese zodiac. Many Chinese try to give birth in a year of the Monkey as it is said that people born in the Year of the Monkey are said to be clever, skillful, and flexible, they are remarkably inventive and original and can solve the most difficult problems with ease. Having common sense, Monkey people have a deep desire for knowledge and have excellent memories. Monkey people are most compatible with the Dragon and Rat.
 
In 2016 the City of Sydney’s Chinese New Year Festival is celebrating its 20th Anniversary. The festival runs from 6-21 February and includes a Food and Wine festival, Dragon Boat racing, a Twilight Parade as well as Lunar Markets under the stars, just to name a few.   The Sydney Opera House will glow lucky red for three nights from the 6th February through the Chinese New Years eve and Chinese New Year’s Day ending on the 8th February. Oh and lets not forget for the first time the CBD will light up with giant Lunar Lanterns representing signs of the Chinese Zodiac. To find out more about these great event head to www.sydneychinesenewyear.com.au
 
Good luck to all who are expecting in the Year of the Monkey! It sounds like you are going to have a creative, fun and loving spunky monkey (or 2 or 3 or 4…..) who will bring you lots of love joy and happiness. Happy Chinese New Year….