Lunar New Year (Chinese New Year)

The Lunar New Year, also known as Chinese New Year or Spring Festival, is the most important traditional holiday in China and is celebrated by millions worldwide. In 2025, it marks the beginning of the Year of the Snake in the Chinese zodiac. This festival, rich in tradition and symbolism, typically lasts for 15 days. Celebrations include family reunions, festive meals, the giving of red envelopes (hongbao) containing money, and various cultural performances such as dragon and lion dances. Houses are thoroughly cleaned to sweep away bad luck, and red decorations are hung to attract good fortune. Fireworks and firecrackers are set off to ward off evil spirits. Traditional foods like dumplings and fish are eaten for their symbolic meanings of wealth and abundance. The festival concludes with the Lantern Festival, where colorful lanterns are displayed and sweet rice balls (tangyuan) are eaten. This celebration emphasizes family bonds, respect for ancestors, and hopes for good fortune in the coming year.