According to the traditional Chinese zodiac, January 22, 2023 marks the Chinese New Year, kicking off the Year of the Rabbit, which runs until February 9, 2024. (By the way, you'll often see the holiday referred to as Lunar New Year, to be inclusive of other Asian countries that celebrate a similar holiday. This article has a good explanation of the mostly interchangeable terms.)
What is the Year of the Rabbit?
In Chinese culture, the Year of the Rabbit heralds the arrival of longevity, peace, and prosperity, with 2023 predicted to be a year full of hope. Here’s hoping!
Every 12 years, the zodiac cycles repeat; the last Year of the Rabbit took place in 2011. The 12 animal signs that comprise that traditional Chinese zodiac are considered more than just a lucky number or good luck charm—they represent a deeper connection to China’s ancient cultural heritage.
People born in the Year of the Rabbit are affectionately known as Rabbits, and according to this website, “are predicted to be gentle, quiet, elegant, and alert as well as quick, skillful, kind, patient, and very responsible, sometimes reluctant to reveal their minds to others and having a tendency to escape reality, but always faithful to those around them.”
A Fun, Melissa & Doug Way to Celebrate the Year of the Rabbit!
Whether you or your child was born in the Year of the Rabbit, or you just want to celebrate Lunar New Year in your own special way, Melissa & Doug offers TWO versions of an un-put-down-able plush stuffed rabbit toy that would make a perfect gift to mark the occasion: the Burrow Bunny Rabbit Stuffed Animal and his even BIGGER offspring, Jumbo Burrow Bunny Stuffed Plush Animal!
Here’s a closer look at the Jumbo Burrow Bunny:
The adorably oversized lop-eared Jumbo Burrow Bunny will hop happily into any child's life! Extra-soft and squishy plush and fill make this bunny perfect for petting and hugging. Durably made from top-quality materials, it will last through years of cuddles. The two-toned beige bunny rabbit sits about 21 inches tall and 20 inches wide. With a sweet face, long ears, and big, floppy feet, it's ideal for kids' rooms, from nurseries to college dorms!
We've even got a Year of the Rabbit-themed Printable for your kids to color and enjoy!
For another fun potential Lunar New Year activity, check out this blog post to create a paper lantern you can use to celebrate the New Year, or just download the PDF below!
