For many of us that live in New York and around the world, we generally celebrate the New Year on December 31st for New Year’s Eve and January 1st of course. Something that is just as big in certain parts of the world is The Chinese New Year, which starts the week of February 8th. Some facts about this year’s Chinese New Year- the zodiac symbol for 2016 happens to be the red monkey, and this is 4,713th Chinese year as well. On top of all of this, some great local NYC hotspots are planning some pretty big things for the celebration and they want you to be involved. So let’s see what these great places have to offer to ring in the new year!

La Chine at the Waldorf Astoria New York: La Chine will introduce a Chinese New Year menu from Monday, Feb. 8th through Saturday, Feb. 13th. The special provincial-style cuisine includes ‘Lo Hei’ Yusheng raw fish salad, a traditional dish symbolizing prosperity and good fortune, BBQ Buddhist duck, Beijing-style ‘Dong Bo’ pork belly and sesame rice dumplings. After each meal, diners will receive a lucky red envelope (based on the tradition of ‘Hongbao’) with the chance to win a prize (champagne, dessert, etc.). Reservations available via Open Table.

Chinese New Year Fireworks Dinner Cruise: Celebrate the Chinese New Year as you sail down the Hudson on the lively Spirit of NewYork or sophisticated Bateaux New York dining cruises. Take in magnificent views of celebratory fireworks with iconic landmarks like the Statue of Liberty, One World Trade and the Brooklyn Bridge as the ultimate backdrop. Both cruises depart from Chelsea Piers and last three hours.
Happy New Year to all that celebrate!