Asian New Years traditions and practices vary a bit depending on the country. Preparations for the Chinese New Year begin on Jan. 17. In Korea, the celebration will begin on Jan. 25, for example, but regardless of the country, the traditions practiced during the holidays are very similar. Of those, eating the right foods is very important.
I Love Produce, based in Kelton, PA, is stocked up and ready with items customers and consumers who celebrate the holiday. David Kim, sales representative, said the company will be offering a three-pack Asian pear package with the Eat Brighter symbol.
“We also offer Fuji apples, garlic and ginger that are typically used during the holiday,” said Kim. “We expect a bump in sales especially from Asian supermarkets and foodservice operations as it’s a big food holiday in the Asian community.”
He said that Jan. 1 in the lunar calendar is Korean New Year’s Day, which is Jan. 25 in the solar calendar.
“Asian New Years’ day is the biggest holiday of year for Korean and Chinese people,” said Kim. “They not only celebrate the new year, but also remember their ancestors and give thanks to them.”
The holiday calls for those who celebrate the holiday to visit their parents’ homes where the entire family gathers together. People dress in new clothing or their finest, most colorful attire,” said Kim. “The morning’s memorial service table includes a main dish, which in Korea is a rice cake stew.”
The table has many different dishes, including meats, seafood, vegetables, fruits and desserts. Kim added, “Fruit offerings always include Asian pears, apples, persimmons, dates, chestnuts and other cultural foods.”
Family members perform a memorial service for ancestors in their home or at gravesites — typically both when appropriate. Young people bow to their elders to show respect, and elders give money to the young ones. In the afternoon, after breakfast and services, families enjoy a variety games and sports.
“When the family members go to their parent’s homes, they always bring large-size fruits,” said Kim. “This too is a gesture of respect. Pear sizes from 12 to the large 7 are most popular. Apple sizes range from 56 to 48, and even the 36 size.”
