“Holidays in China have turned into food festivals. The cultural aspect of it is missing,” Huo Shangde, Chairman of the Society for the Study of Folk Literature and Art wrote in an article published by the People’s Daily on February 14. Huo is calling the nation to be relieved from the “food festival” and revive the vibrant cultural contents.
Huo describes China as the nation that emphasizes loyalty, respect, kindness, and love. "The traditions of the holidays imply the deep rooted cultural of harmony of heaven and mankind," he said, "without it, Chinese civilization will lose its glory."
It was reported that during the week of the Chinese New Year celebration this year, the restaurant industry in Shanghai produced 96.8 million yuan (US$ 13.4 million) in revenue, 16.7 percent increase from last year. The average banquet in Shanghai costs 1,699 yuan (US$236) per table.
Source:
China News, February 14, 2008
http://www.chinanews.com.cn/cul/news/2008/02-14/1162189.shtml
Xinhua, February 14, 2008
http://news.xinhuanet.com/newscenter/2008-02/13/content_7598302.htm