If you were born in 1926, 1938, 1950, 1962, 1974, 1986, 1998, or 2010 — 2022 is your year. Today marks the start of the Lunar New Year, celebrated by Asian countries + around the world (technically, we’re 24 hours behind the Eastern Hemisphere, so celebrations began yesterday).

Did you know? Each year on the lunar calendar is represented by one of 12 animals — on a 12 year cycle — and 2022 is the Year of the Tiger. The Tiger is said to represent strength, power, and bravery — and Tiger years are supposed to be a time of big changes through risk-taking and adventure. 🐅

Local events

Celebrations of the Lunar New Year typically include lantern festivals, fireworks, gifts of money in red envelopes, and the eating of traditional foods associated with prosperity. Here’s how you can join the festivities right here in Chattanooga.

Lunar New Year | Sat., Feb. 12 | 12-4 p.m. | Creative Discovery Museum | $15.95 | Hands-on crafts for the kiddos, a dragon procession through the museum, and a folkloric Chinese dance performance at this family-friendly event.
AFG Lion Dance 2022 | Sun., Feb. 13 | 12 p.m. | Asian Food & Gifts, 3639 Hixson Pike | Free | Gather with friends and family in the AFG parking lot for the annual lion dance + firecracker show.

How to take adventures + risks around Chattanooga

If the mention of “big changes” makes you a bit uncomfortable, you’re not alone. While change isn’t always easy, we’re here to help make this year’s adventures and risk-taking a bit more fun.

Channel your inner tiger + put your strength to the test at Kyle House Fitness or Chattanooga Mixed Martial Arts College. Want to flex those mental muscles? Attend a trivia night at Fountainhead Taproom or try your hand at a local escape room such as Escape Experience Chattanooga.

There’s nothing quite like the bravery you feel while facing your fears. If you’re looking for some more daunting tasks, keep everyone laughing during Improv Chattanooga, or serenade strangers at Open Mic Night at Cherry Street Tavern on Wednesdays.

And, if you’re really looking to test the limits, head on over to Jack Brown’s to try the famous burger + fried oreos challenge. If your photo ends up on the wall, don’t forget about your pals at NOOGAtoday in all your newly-found fame.