Rats get a bad rap in Western culture. The less-than-adorable rodents are often referenced in disparaging ways: "I smell a rat"; "Why that dirty rat." . . . But in China, being a Rat is no disgrace. In fact, according to Chinese astrology, the Rat is a respected, courageous, and enterprising individual.
The Year of the Rat officially began on Feb. 7, so we think it's high time to embrace the Rats among us. Those born in Rat years (1912, 1924, 1936, 1948, 1960, 1972, 1984, 1996) are charming, clever, hard-working, intelligent, practical, and social (let's just overlook the part about them being obstinate, controlling, critical gossips). Among the famous Rats out there: Al Gore, William Shakespeare, Prince Charles, Mozart, Jimmy Carter, Mata Hari, Tolstoy, Sean Penn, Marlon Brando, Sidney Poitier, and Yves St. Laurent. And how's this for irony: None of the notorious Rat Pack - Frank (Rabbit), Dean (Snake), and Sammy (Ox) - was a true Rat.
But it makes no difference if you're a Rat, a Dog, or a Pig when it comes to celebrating the new year. Tomorrow, the city of Boston celebrates with its Chinese New Year Festival in Chinatown, featuring lion dances, firecrackers, and speeches by community leaders such as Mayor Menino. 10 a.m.-5:30 p.m. Free. Essex Street and Harrison Avenue, Boston. 617-350-6303.
chinatownmainstreet.org
In Quincy, tomorrow's 20th annual Lunar New Year Festival features traditional lion dances, martial arts demonstrations, traditional Chinese music, and an array of Asian food. 10:30 a.m.-4 p.m. Free. North Quincy High, 316 Hancock St., 617-472-2200. qari.info [Al Young]
