When is the New Year's Eve dinner eaten?
On the evening of New Year's Eve.
The New Year's Eve dinner is typically held on the evening of the 30th day of the 12th lunar month. Also known as the Year-End Dinner, Reunion Dinner, or Family Reunion Feast, it specifically refers to the family gathering on the eve of the Lunar New Year. This feast symbolizes the family's reunion, with all members—young and old, male and female—participating. It is the most important dinner for the family at the end of the year.If someone cannot return in time, an empty seat with a pair of chopsticks is reserved at the table, symbolizing the family's reunion. This is a custom of the New Year's Eve dinner.
Why is it customary to leave a little food on the table during the New Year's Eve dinner?
It represents "abundance year after year."
When dining on New Year's Eve, people often leave a small portion uneaten. This leftover symbolizes "abundance" for the coming year, embodying everyone's blessings for prosperity in the new year.
Additionally, fish is an essential dish during the New Year's Eve feast. Since "fish" (鱼) and "surplus" (余) share the same pronunciation, it similarly represents the wish for "abundance year after year."
What are the customs for the New Year's Eve dinner?
Seating etiquette
Seating arrangements during the New Year's Eve dinner are highly significant. Generally, elders sit at the head of the table, followed by grandchildren, then parents. Everyone, regardless of age or gender, is expected to drink alcohol.
Conversation Etiquette
Conversation during the New Year's Eve dinner must be carefully monitored, with great emphasis placed on auspicious speech. Unlucky words must be avoided. If one is full and does not want more, one should not directly say "I don't want any more," but rather say "I've had enough." If another dish is finished, one should say "I've eaten my fill" or "There's too much," rather than directly saying "There's none left."
Adults Avoid Soups
In many regions, adults traditionally avoid soups during the New Year's Eve feast. This stems from the belief that soups, being liquid, symbolize travel and wandering, which is considered inauspicious for adults who are often away from home.
There is no strict rule regarding the exact number of dishes for the New Year's Eve dinner. It is best to decide based on the number of people in your household. However, most regions prefer an even number of dishes, such as 6, 8, 10, or 12, as these numbers carry auspicious meanings. Ultimately, it is recommended to base the number on your household size, ensuring there is no excessive waste.