17/02/2026
Happy Lunar New Year!
For Emergency Medicine Staff Specialist Henry Tsao Lunar New Year is a tradition his family has celebrated every year and a time to welcome health, prosperity, and joy.
We asked Henry to share his experience.
What does Lunar New Year mean to you or your family?
Celebrating Lunar New Year is an important family tradition in my family and symbolises a time where we welcome health, prosperity and joy. As far as I can remember, my family have always celebrated this without fail every year.
Are there any traditions or customs you particularly enjoy?
As a kid, I always looked forward to getting red pockets, which were red envelops with money that symbolised luck and fortune. I used to put these under my pillow while I slept. This is a tradition we have continued that we have children and nieces/nephews.
For my family, it involves gathering for a feast. My mum and wife usually prepare a spread of meat, fish, seafood (for some reason, they love Abalone) and chicken soup. Being Taiwanese, this is usually paired with classic Taiwanese drinks such as Apple Sidra, HeySong sarsaparilla and Taiwan Beer. For the children, it provides an opportunity to make some money through red pockets.
Is there anything you’d like others to know about Lunar New Year?
The celebration of the Lunar New Year apparently originated from the Legend of Nian, a beast with a lion-like head who was afraid of red, fire and noise. To ward off Nian, people began wearing red clothing, hanging red lanterns, and setting off fireworks and firecrackers during the festivities.
What do you think is the best part of your culture and how has it influenced your professional career?
The best part of my culture is its deep emphasis on family, especially respecting one's parents, elders, and ancestors. For me, I believe this has deepened a sense of empathy and compassion for others, and to treat others as you would your own family.