Date and Duration: The Lunar New Year begins with the first new moon of the lunar calendar and ends 15 days later on the first full moon. It typically falls between late January and mid-February.
Chinese Zodiac Animals: The celebration follows a 12-year cycle, with each year associated with an animal. 2025 marks the Year of the Snake, with other animals including the rat, ox, tiger, and others.
Symbolism of the Snake: In Chinese culture, snakes represent both fear and reverence. They symbolize rebirth, regeneration, love, and happiness, and are associated with longevity alongside the turtle and crane.
Legends and Traditions: The festival has many traditions, including a myth about the Nian monster, which is said to fear the color red, loud noises, and fire.
Ancestor Worship: Many Asian cultures, including Korean and Vietnamese, honor ancestors during the Lunar New Year with special rituals, food offerings, and prayers for blessings in the coming year.
Diaspora Celebrations: Across the U.S. and other parts of the world, diaspora communities organize parades, dragon dances, and carnivals, while also decorating homes and exchanging red envelopes filled with money for good luck.
Traditional Foods: Special foods are central to the celebration, such as dumplings, rice cakes, and long-life noodles in Chinese culture, and tteokguk (rice cake soup) in Korea.