When Is the Lunar New Year?

Lunar New Year is a 15-day celebration marking the first new moon between January 21 and February 20. This timing aligns with the lunisolar calendar traditionally used in many East Asian cultures.

What Is the Lunar New Year?

The origins of Lunar New Year trace back thousands of years to a captivating legend. As the story goes, a fierce monster named Nian terrorized villagers at the start of each year. However, it feared loud noises, bright lights, and the color red, To protect themselves, villagers held loud celebrations and wore red to repel the beast.

Nowadays, the holiday is celebrated with vibrant lights, joyous parties, and traditional red decorations, which symbolize luck and prosperity for the coming year.

Lunar New Year gets its name because its date is set by the lunisolar calendar—a calendar based on both moon and sun cycles—common in East Asian cultures. Similar to how January 1 marks a new calendar year globally, Lunar New Year signals a new lunisolar year for its celebrants.

What Is the Significance of Animals in the Chinese New Year?

In 2025, we celebrate the Year of the Snake, marking the sixth year in the 12-year cycle of Chinese Zodiac animals. Each of these zodiac signs, like the snake, is associated with distinct personality traits. For example, those born in a snake year typically possess wisdom and eloquence, bringing grace and humor to others.

The Chinese zodiac annually cycles through 12 animals: rat, ox, tiger, rabbit, dragon, snake, horse, goat, monkey, rooster, dog, and pig. With 2025 being the Year of the Snake, 2026 will feature the horse, and 2027 will introduce the goat.

These twelve animals alternate in a yin and yang sequence based on the odd or even number of their claws, hooves, or feet. Curious about your zodiac sign? Discover it here.

How to Celebrate the Chinese New Year at Home

Lunar New Year is traditionally marked by spectacular fireworks, delicious feasts, and joyous gatherings. If your community isn't hosting a grand event, create your own celebration at home with family and friends for a festive experience.

Hand Out Red Envelopes

Part of the Lunar New Year tradition is giving red envelopes filled with money to young people. If you're hosting at home, consider filling these envelopes with dollar bills or vouchers for fun activities, and delight your kids by handing them out throughout the day.

Hang Lanterns

According to legend, bright lights would scare away the monster Nian, which is why fireworks and lanterns light up Lunar New Year celebrations. This year, opt for hanging red paper lanterns to create a festive atmosphere without the noise of fireworks.

Make a Traditional Recipe

Lunar New Year focuses on luck and prosperity, making it the perfect occasion to prepare a meal featuring foods believed to bring good fortune. Explore making dishes with these 12 lucky foods, such as fish or lentils, to enjoy a delicious start to the new year.