Why is food such an important part of celebrations?

I'd say food creates a shared experience that brings people together during celebrations. When everyone eats the same dish, it builds a sense of connection and belonging. Like when my team in Shanghai celebrated our project launch, sharing that chocolate cake I baked made the moment more meaningful - it wasn't just about eating, but about appreciating our teamwork. Food also carries cultural traditions - during Chinese New Year in Hangzhou, my family always makes dumplings together, which keeps our customs alive while we enjoy each other's company. So it's both about bonding and preserving heritage.