Happy Lunar New (Monkey) Year!

To my fellow TF readers celebrating Chinese Lunar New Year, I wish you all a prosperous Year of the Monkey! 恭喜發財! 新年快樂! 새해 복 많이 받으세요!

Firework on Hudson River with the famous Manhattan skyline on the back.

Red pockets (aka Lai See) are presented at social or family gathering during Chinese
Lunar New Year. The word "lai see" means "good luck" in Chinese, and Lai Sees are
 typically in color red or gold as a symbol of prosperous, and good luck. They are
normally given out by married couples to single people regardless of age. Lai See
contains money,usually ends with an even digit, and the bank notes are usually new,
which is why you see long queue around CNY at the banks.

Valentine's Day is less than a week away! Be sure to check out last week's post on the list of inspiring ideas for St. Valentine's Day in New York City! Read more on "The New Yorkers' Guide To A Memorable Valentine".