FROM THE ARCHIVES: DIRTY SONS-OF-BUMPUSES...:

A growing Christmas tradition -- Chinese food: In I.D., customers opt for Peking duck over turkey (BRAD WONG, 12/23/06, Seattle Post-Intelligencer)

In recent years, as people's lives have become busier, eating Chinese food on Christmas Day has become more of an American tradition.

It also has become its own type of celebration in the Emerald City.

International District business people say that many Western restaurants, especially those in the suburbs, close for the holiday, but people still want a convenient place to eat.

"We want to keep our customers happy," said Andy Wong, the Sea Garden's owner. "We don't want to miss this day."

Those who show up at Chinese restaurants include people who do not celebrate the Christian holiday; business people and international guests from downtown hotels; college students staying in the area; and singles looking for a crowded, lively atmosphere.

Families also have moved their Christmas parties from their dining rooms to Chinese restaurants -- with customers showing up in red-and-white hats.

[originally posted: 2006-12-23]