In regards to birthday gifts, the Chinese consider watches taboo, because they serve as visual reminders that time is running out and death is inevitable. Candles are also deemed an inappropriate gift, because Chinese people use candles when making sacrifices to their dead. Lastly, the Chinese believe that mirrors attract evil ghosts. It is important to know what gifts are taboo to ensure a Chinese birthday celebration runs smoothly!
Along with finding appropriate birthday gifts, it is necessary that the person who is celebrating their birthday eats noodles. As previously mentioned, noodles represent longevity. This is rooted in the Chinese belief that eating long noodles will lead to a long life. Noodles are more important than birthday cake for Chinese birthday celebrations. Still, we enjoyed a vanilla cake with cream cheese and fruit. It was similar to birthday cake in the United States, but as with most Chinese foods I have had, it was a lot less sweet. Regardless, it was a sweet birthday celebration!
The Chinese birthday traditions are very connected to the Chinese culture. I have learned that Chinese people uphold numerous superstitions. Thus, the superstitions the Chinese connect to birthday gifts reflect how ancient beliefs continue to shape their culture today. Specifically, the Chinese emphasize certain things that are lucky and unlucky, which is reflected in their birthday tradition of eating noodles. Overall, many things in China are done with superstititions and symbolism in mind.
