3 minute read
On Tuesday, February 17th, VIAGE will be immersed in red and gold as we celebrate Chinese New Year! Prepare yourself for an evening filled with tradition, flavors, and entertainment.
This ancient festival, also known as the Spring Festival, is the most important traditional celebration in Chinese culture. It marks the beginning of a new lunar year and falls on the second new moon after the winter solstice of December 21st. According to our calendar, that's somewhere between January 21st and February 20th.
This celebration has a history spanning more than 3,500 years and originates from agricultural rituals in which people thanked the gods and ancestors for the harvest and asked for blessings for the new year.
From Horse to Fire Horse
In 2026, a new chapter begins in Chinese astrology: the Year of the Horse. The Chinese character for the horse, the seventh animal in the twelve-part Chinese zodiac, evolved from ancient drawings of a horse in motion. The flowing manes and sturdy legs are still recognizable even in the modern form.
The Year of the Fire Horse 2026 teaches us that freedom is sacred, passion is precious, and authenticity is necessary. – Susan Mako
Beyond this twelve-year cycle, the Chinese calendar also follows a cycle of five elements: wood, fire, earth, metal, and water. Each Chinese year has its corresponding element. In 2026, it's the element of fire, which is why this year is known as the Year of the Fire Horse. This combination makes it a year of optimism and opportunities. Perfect for a vibrant celebration at VIAGE!
Tradition, Spectacle, and Fortune
We'll kick things off at 6 PM with the distribution of traditional red envelopes (hongbao) to the first 200 guests. Red represents luck and protection. Inside each envelope you'll find surprising Chinese goodies.
Naturally, the colorful dragon dance won't be missing. According to tradition, the dance drives away evil spirits and brings blessings for the new year. And while fortune cookies have their origins more in Chinese-American culture than in China itself, they've grown into a permanent New Year tradition worldwide. Inside awaits a small message or good luck wish for the new year. You can also write your own wish or lucky symbol during the calligraphy workshop. Live violin music will set the perfect mood, followed by a DJ who'll add a contemporary festive touch.
Special Chinese New Year Menu
For the occasion, our chef will serve a Chinese New Year menu filled with refined flavors. The starter features a trio of Asian salads (teriyaki-marinated sea bream / tofu salad / soy-marinated daikon radish). The main course consists of New Year ravioli with beef or vegetarian, in a sauce of soy, sesame, and herbs.
These ravioli aren't chosen randomly. In China, people traditionally eat 'jiaozi' (dumplings) during New Year because their shape resembles ancient Chinese gold ingots and thus symbolically represents prosperity and good fortune.
Will you join us at VIAGE to ring in the Year of the Horse? We're expecting you on Tuesday, February 17th for an unforgettable evening filled with tradition, flavor, and celebration!
