Chongqing- As the onset of spring approaches each year, families over China and worldwide reunite to see in the Chinese New Year together, and share in a joyous tradition that dates back millennia.

Spring Festival is marked through a rich variety of festivities, decorations, gifts, food, and family entertainment that begins on the first day of spring, and lasts officially through to the Lantern Festival a fortnight later.

Two famous dishes that symbolize reunion and prosperity are glutinous rice balls and dumplings, which are consumed all over China depending on the region.

Learn more about the story behind these traditional foods, and how they came to symbolize family reunion and prosperity for a new year in the Chinese zodiac.

Share in this ancient tradition and try your hand at a simple yet delicious recipe for either famous dish. Follow the easy steps in our fun animated video and see in the new year together as people in China every year.