Kung Hee Fat Choy

Ox is the sign of prosperity through fortitude and hard work.

Calculated on the ancient lunar calendar, begins with the second new moon after the winter solstice (December 21); date varies from year to year.

Important time for family reunions.

On New Year's Eve, presence of ancestors acknowledged with dinner.

Dead relatives are remembered with great respect.

The communal feast is called 'surrounding the stove' or 'weilu'.

Children receive New Year's gifts, including clothing and toys.

Friends and relatives also exchange red envelopes containing 'lucky money'.

This year's celebrations include a reception at the Pegasus and a banquet hosted by the Chinese Benevolent Association.

- See special feature on the Chinese New Year in Sunday's Outlook magazine.

The Chinese New Year, the Year of the Ox, is also known as Ji Chou; it begins on January 26.