Newborn:
The first important event for the newly born baby is the one-month celebration.
Relatives and friends receive gifts from the child's parents. The types of gifts vary
from place to place, but traditional red eggs are a must. Red dyed eggs are chosen
as gifts because they symbolize the changing process of life, and their round shape
is the symbol of a harmonious and happy life. The red color is a sign of happiness in
the Chinese culture. Besides eggs, other foods such as cakes, chickens, ginger,
and hams, are often given as gifts. Gifts are also always given in even number.
During the celebration, relatives and friends of the family will give the child red
envelopes filled with money. Grandparents usually give their grandchild gold or silver
ware to show their deep love for the child. In the evening, the child's parents
present/offer a rich feast at home or a restaurant to the guests at the celebration.
Elderly:
The Chinese do not pay a lot of attention to birthdays until they become 60 years
old. The 60th birthday is regarded as a very important point in life due to its
association with the Chinese lunar calendar. After this special celebration, a birthday
celebration is held every ten years. Generally, the older a person becomes, the
greater the celebration. The Chinese count age starting from birth. A baby born on
December 24, 2005, for example, will be 2 years old on January 1, 2006, because it
will have crossed 2 years from 2005 to 2006. It is the grown offspring who celebrate
their elderly parents' birthdays to show deep respect for them and express their
thanks.
According to traditional customs, the parents are offered foods that have the
symbolism of health and prosperity. On the birthday morning the father or mother will
eat a bowl of noodles. In China long noodles symbolize longevity. Eggs are also
among the best choices of food taken to others on this special occasion and
symbolize harmony.
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