How to ring in the “Year of the Monkey” this weekend

There’s thousands of years of history and tradition behind this celebration, but for many of us who’ve been raised in the Western part of the world, we’ll be welcoming in the year of the monkey — simply but contently — with food, family, and friends.

Around Charlotte, there are several upcoming events to commemorate the holiday:

Chinese New Year Gala Hosted by the Chinese American Association of Charlotte at UNCC McKnight Hall

The Peaceful Dragon Chinese New Year Festival

The Peaceful Dragon is hosting its 19th annual Chinese New Year’s Festival on Saturday, February 6, from 11 a.m. to 2 p.m. Ceremonial Lion Dance, Dragon Dance and more. Admission is just $3 per family, or FREE with a donation of a non-perishable food item for Loaves and Fishes charity.

St Joseph Vietnamese Church Tet Festival

If you’re not up for attending one of these three events but still want to commemorate the holiday with some authentic food, check out Axios Charlotte’s coverage of local Asian restaurants for inspiration:

Korean Food at Pepero

On New Year’s day, Koreans traditionally eat rice cake soup (dduk gook) for good luck. If you’re not feeling adventurous, this is a good, non-spicy option.

10 Charlotte Vietnamese Restaurants

Charlotte is fortunate to host a large Vietnamese population, one of the benefits of which is a solid choice of authentic restaurants.

Dim Sum Chinese Restaurant

Dim Sum will undoubtedly be very popular this weekend, even more than usual, if that’s even possible. Get there early and ask for the specials.

For you Chinese Zodiac zealots, birth years for the monkey include  1944, 1956, 1968, 1980, 1992 and 2004. People born in the year of the monkey are said to be smart, clever and intelligent, especially in career and wealth.

They’re also known to have a temper with a tendency to look down upon others. Like the animal, they’re lively, flexible, quick-witted and versatile. And with a gentleness and honesty, they’re destined for an everlasting love life and are best matched with a partner born in the year of the ox or rabbit.