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February 18 kicks off the Chinese New Year. Ring in the holiday of the pig by crooning “Gung Hay Fat Choi ”—the traditional Chinese Happy New Year song—after you’ve learned to speak Mandarin or picked up other cultural bits at one of these classes.

Mandarin I
Hong Wu, co-owner of Evanston’s Dream About Tea shop, educates locals about the benefits of tea throughout the year and teaches Mandarin I during the winter. As a former student of the English language, Wu understands the importance of group motivation and cultural learning, which explains why watching classic Chinese talk shows is included in the curriculum. You’ll be gossiping about your favorite new television show in Mandarin before you know it. 1011 Davis St, Evanston. Call 847-864-7464 or e-mail Wu at info@dreamabouttea.com. 12-week course, Sun 2–3pm; starting Sun 14; $298.

Chinese for Travelers
If you’re afraid of being lost in translation, the Chicago Chinese Cultural Institute offers this class on the basics of Mandarin. Learn to properly introduce yourself, ask for directions and order a meal. Between classes, you can hone your skills at the Chinese Language Corner—inspired by “English corners” in China, where students hide their flushed cheeks from each other while practicing English in the dark. CCCI, 2145B S China Pl, second floor, at Princeton Ave. Call 312-842-1988 or download the registration form at www.chicagocci.com. Six-week course, Sun 1–2:30pm, starting Sun 14; $150.

Tai chi
Can’t handle learning another language? Bend your body instead of your brain. You’ve likely seen people balancing in unusual positions, practicing this meditative martial art in the park at the butt-crack of dawn. If you’re envious of their dexterity—but not the early hours—sign up for one of the four tai chi classes available at the Beverly Arts Center. Tai chi for beginners and a class designated for the “over-50 crowd” are listed below. Those with more experience should check the website for Tai Chi Long Form and Tai Chi for Stress Relief. Beverly Arts Center, 2407 W 111th St at Western Ave. Call 773-445-3838 or register online at www.beverlyartcenter.org. Introduction to tai chi: ten-week course, Sun 3–4pm; starting Sun 14; $105. Tai chi for seniors: ten-week course, Wed 9–10am; started Jan 10; $105 prorated.—Caitlin Monaghan