The Spring Festival is the most important traditional holiday in China, and the New Year's Eve dinner is one of the most meaningful parts of the celebration. It is not only a time for family reunion but also a moment to show respect for ancestors and express gratitude for the past year.

On the evening of the Lunar New Year’s Eve, the whole family gathers together in the living room or the dining room. The table is always full of delicious dishes, each with its own special meaning. For example, fish is served because it sounds like “abundance” in Chinese, and dumplings are eaten because they resemble ancient Chinese money, symbolizing wealth and prosperity. Other popular dishes include roasted pork, long noodles (which represent longevity), and glutinous rice cakes (which stand for progress and success in the new year).

The atmosphere during the dinner is warm and joyful. Parents and grandparents tell stories about their childhood, while children play games or watch the Spring Festival Gala on TV. Everyone is happy and full of hope for the coming year. After the meal, families often stay up late to welcome the new year, which is called “守岁” (shǒu suì) in Chinese. This tradition is believed to bring good luck and protect the family from evil spirits.

In my opinion, the New Year's Eve dinner is more than just a meal. It is a symbol of love, unity, and cultural heritage. Through this tradition, we not only enjoy the food but also strengthen our family bonds and pass down the values of our ancestors. Even though many people live far away from home, the memory of the New Year's Eve dinner remains a precious part of their hearts.