The traditional food eaten during the Chinese New Year is "dumplings," also known as "jiaozi." Dumplings are often made with minced meat and vegetables wrapped in a thin dough. They symbolize wealth and prosperity because their shape resembles ancient Chinese gold or silver ingots. Families often gather to make dumplings together, fostering a sense of unity and celebration. Other traditional foods include fish, which symbolizes surplus, and rice cakes, which represent higher income or position. The New Year festivities are rich with symbolism and culinary traditions that reflect cultural values and hopes for the year ahead.