Like many other important holidays, restaurant planning for marketing promotions and programs should not overlook the beginning of the Lunar calendar. It is important to note that a major portion of the world’s population in Asian countries, such as China, Japan, Korea and Vietnam, will ring in the start of the New Year on January 23rd. The Asian Lunar Year, often referred to as Chinese New Year here in the States, is a two week (actually 15 days) celebration accompanied by a tradition of eating different dishes to promote happiness, health and wealth. It is also a perfect time as part of your restaurant planning to promote a variety of drinks and foods to embody the traditions such as: “Lucky foods eaten during the 15-day festival include noodles for longevity, peanuts for auspicious new beginnings, spring rolls for prosperity, dumplings for wealth, whole fish for abundance, melons for health and family unity, pork for strength, sweets for happiness, and oranges and other citrus for several reasons.” This is also the Year of the Dragon, a time of being bold and daring, and considered by many in Asian culture to be the strongest of the twelve Eastern zodiac animals. It is a year where abundance and prosperity are emphasized along with strength. Check out these other restaurant marketing ideas to make your foodservice operation bold and daring as well. By the way and if you have not noticed as part of your foodservice or bar and nightclub management activities, Asian immigrant numbers are climbing in many communities across the USA, especially in the Midwest and Southwest. So, it makes sense to create another target market in your restaurant planning and cater to their traditions too.
Perry Group
Hotel & Restaurant Experts For The Hospitality Industry
