The Chinese zodiac deals in a 12-year cycle, as opposed to the 12-month Western zodiac or the astrological signs commonly associated with horoscopes. Each of the 12 years of the Chinese Zodiac is represented by a different animal, with characteristics and personality features attributed to it. The Chinese zodiac has no correlation to star constellations like the Western zodiac does. The first day of the lunar calendar is Jan. 23, which marks the start of a two-week season of celebration called the Spring Festival.

The Year of the Dragon (2012) sees us almost halfway through the 12-year cycle. Defined by its characteristics, the dragon is said to be vigorous, self-assured, pioneering, fiery, intellectual and dignified - among other things (sounds like my SWF seeks SM for LTR singles ad). Positive personality traits are said to be held by someone born in the year of the dragon. The downside (and there's always a downside) is the dragon can also be arrogant, demanding, impetuous and tactless. With this in mind, look forward to smart, energetic forging ahead in the year to come with guaranteed sporadic temper tantrums.

Celebrating the Chinese New Year is all about the parade, the show and the food. We're talking gorgeous dragons and dance troupes, elaborate colorful costumes and traditional drumming that creates a feast for the eyes during street parades and presentations. The color red is prominently used, as it's believed to ward off evil spirits and bring luck.

A big fuss is made over foods deemed to be lucky for the coming year. Family connectedness, wealth, a long life, and prosperity are represented by foods like whole chickens, noodles, clams and spring rolls. Serving these dishes is rooted in old superstition, symbolism and tradition. Perhaps the most popular food when celebrating the Chinese New Year, a sticky rice cake, is symbolic of a rich, sweet life, a coming abundance and family unity. Maybe it should be served year round.

Over the next few weeks various celebrations in the area will be held to usher in the Chinese New Year. Below you'll find a few ways to celebrate.

In its 15th year, Tet in Seattle is a two-day festival celebrating Vietnamese culture and the start of the New Year - running Jan. 21- 22 at the Seattle Center. Expect a lot of Vietnamese dancing, music and food. Red firecrackers are also prominent, warding off evil spirits and bring about good luck.

To kick the Spring Festival off, Chef Tim Slyne, executive chef at Franke Tobey Jones (5340 North Bristol, Tacoma), will host a food-focused presentation Monday, Jan. 23 at 3 p.m. Chef Slyne will talk about dishes traditionally served on Chinese New Year and offer demonstrations on how to make the dishes in your own home. The event is free and open to the public.

On the Evergreen State College campus in Olympia, Master Chungliang Al Huang will lead his 12th Chinese Lunar New Year Tai Ji Seminar Jan. 27-29. Chinese calligraphy, culture and dance will be explored. Tickets are $10 for Evergreen students and staff, and $50 for the general public.

Offered through the Asian Pacific Cultural Center, don't forget to take in a traditional Chinese tea service - held the first Saturday of each month held at the South Park Community Center (4851 South Tacoma Way, Tacoma). This month's tea service is scheduled for Feb. 4. Learn about different teas, customs and styles of drinking from Mr. and Mrs. Neal Sawyer.

In addition to traditional dishes, curries, noodle bowls, fried rice plates and more will be offered at "Bula!" - the 14th Annual Chinese New Year celebration presented by the Asian Pacific Cultural Center and held at the Tacoma Dome Exhibition Hall. Saturday, Feb. 11 from 11 a.m. to 6 p.m. enjoy non-stop action featuring local dance troupes, singing, martial arts demonstrations and live entertainment - representing a wide variety of cultures and peoples. Each year this free community event spotlights a different country. The island and culture of Fiji has been selected for 2012.