China: China’s Tsingtao Beer celebrates the year of the Dog

China’s Tsingtao Beer celebrates the year of the Dog. The Chinese brew, imported by Barton Beers, is latching onto the Year of the Dog in POP and merchandise—bamboo wall calendars, red hanging lanterns and t-shirts—which will be available for consumer giveaways.

The origin of Chinese New Year is attributed to the legend of a monster beast that would swallow people whole. The beast feared the colour red and loud noise. So to scare him away, the people would put up red paper and set off firecrackers. These days, people have long forgotten the legend. They just think the colour and sound add to the excitement of the Chinese New Year celebration.

Consumers can find their Chinese zodiac at tsingtaobeer.com, which also will be loaded with facts about the Chinese New Year. People born during the Year of the Dog are said to be synonymous with being trustworthy, principled, intelligent, honest, attractive and loyal.

31 January, 2006