January 28, 2017 welcomes the Chinese New Year. The first day of each lunar month is marked by the darkest day of the moon’s cycle and moves toward the middle of the month with increased brightness. In China, the first month of each year begins with 15 days of celebrations that culminate with a lantern festival on the month’s brightest moonlit evening. Throughout the two-week celebration, families prepare their homes, share elaborate feasts, and give gifts to promote good fortune in the coming year.
Each Chinese New Year is also assigned an animal identity. Ancient legends proclaim that Buddha requested the company of all animals to join him in welcoming the New Year. The twelve animals who joined him are those which now give each year its astrological identity. This weekend we welcome the Year of the Rooster! Roosters are hardworking, resourceful, courageous and talented. It is believed that those who are born in 2017 will be Fire Roosters, who are more specifically known for their trustworthiness, strong sense of timekeeping, and responsibility at work.
The Tri-State region, with its close-knit communities, is the perfect place to relax in the coming year. Join us in toasting the Year of the Rooster as we embrace the talents of the Litchfield Hills, the courageous spirit of the Berkshires and the Hudson Valley multitude of talents.