Reunion dinner is an important tradition observed by the Chinese and handed down from generation to generation. It is an annual feast when family members reaffirm the love and respect that binds them together as a unit. Every family member is expected to return home for dinner. Traditionally, all sons return to their parental homes for the occasion. Married daughters share the tables of their husband's families. For this meal, the best food is served and in abundance. Chinese believe that having plenty of food brings the family great material wealth in the new year. Food with auspicious names and meaning are served throughout the 15 days of celebration.
Examples :
Spinach or leaf mustard or Chives symbolises longevity
Chinese celery symbolises diligent
Whole chicken symbolises completeness, prosperity, togetherness of the family and joy
Beancurd symbolises promotion
Meatballs symbolises dreams and wishes comes true
Whole fish symbolises surplus, prosperity (having lefovers of money), hence abundance. To strengthen the symbolic meaning of the fish dish, it should not be completely eaten during the reunion dinner.
This list is definitely not exhaustive, as many Chinese communities living around the world may have their own unique food or dish for the reunion dinner.
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