Chinese New Year is celebrated in many ways by many different people. Reading This Next New Year explored some of the customs associated with the holiday. This year the celebration begins February 18th, Gung Hay Fat Choy!

A large group of students listens to the book, This Next New Year.

Students use red and gold paper to decorate good wishes to hang in their homes.

"May you be blessed with peace and safety wherever you go."

The Chinese calendar is based on the lunar year. Each year in a twelve year cycle is represented by a different animal. This year, 2007, is the year of the Pig (Boar)

Students discover which animal is associated with the year of their birth.

Tangrams are a type of Chinese puzzle. Seven shapes are cut from a square and then used to make a picture.

Follow some examples or make up your own arrangement.

The "wheel of togetherness" is a treat set out for visitors during the New Year. Each of the eight compartments is filled with candied fruit to ensure that the New Year will be sweet.

Everyone had a chance to  sample some of the traditional treats.

It wouldn't be Chinese New Year without a parade. Some students danced in the dragon costume and some banged drums and tambourines.