The Chinese Lunar New Year arrives on Monday January 23 and will be celebrated with some gusto in various parts of Thailand. There have been strong historical links between Thailand and China and today an estimated 14% of Thailand’s 65 million population are of Chinese descent.
This year it is the Year of the Dragon. More specifically, it is the Year of the Water Dragon which is a sign that only comes around every 60 years with every 12-year cycle marked by the elements water, wood, fire and earth. The dragon is considered to be the mightiest of the 12 animals of the zodiac and is associated with a long list of positive attributes. Those born in dragon years are supposed to be flamboyant, confident, fearless, energetic and ambitious. They are also believed to have an inner strength and courage although another less positive attribute is their pride and unbending will. The most recent dragon years are 1940, 1952, 1964, 1976, 1988, 2000 and 2012.
Photo © Thaizer
