My three elder brothers, all students of the Jesuit-Chinese School in Cebu, had a number of extra holidays that we sisters didn’t have. I recall they even honored the Double Ten Day on 10 October, the commemoration of the National Day of the Republic of China, plus the Chinese New Year — our source of childhood jealousy.

Lunar New Year, otherwise known as the Spring Festival, is a widespread family affair based on culture and religion to ensure good fortune. The time likewise ushers in the popularity of round fruits and ang pao red envelopes.

Today, malls and hotels are public frontrunners in the festivities of Year of the Wooden Dragon in a bigger, more auspicious way.

The Cebu Waterfront Hotel launched their festivities with the traditional tossing of the marinated salmon fish called Yee Sang. Doing the honors were Cebu City Mayor Michael Rama, art advocate and philanthropist Dr. Vivina Chiu, US Consul Glenn Loop, joined by Cebu City Councilor Dondon Hontiveros and the property’s resident manager Brian Lasala.

The event culminated with a magnificent state-of-the-art computer-generated fireworks display.

The Shangri-La Mactan Cebu welcomed the new year with a series of events. Of note were the special offers by celebrity Chef Liu, with exclusive set menus and a la carte offerings. They likewise had a special offer at Chi, The Spa, where guests may choose to live healthier with a renewed focus on their well-being.

The Seda Ayala Center Cebu was ablaze with red lanterns and colorful paper dragons. Gwen dela Cruz, the hands-on general manager, organized festive dance performances and songs that culminated with a delectable Chinese-Filipino-inspired dinner at Misto restaurant.

The integrated resort and casino facility Nustar Complex, the city’s newest landmark building and the new home of Nustar, was best remembered for their amazing lion and dragon dance at the Casino Atrium.