Millions of people across Asia and the world celebrated the Lunar New Year on Monday, the biggest annual holiday for Asian communities worldwide.
Also known as the Chinese New Year, but not exclusively celebrated in China, the Lunar New Year is deeply rooted in centuries-old traditions that celebrate the first new moon of the lunar calendar.
Celebrations typically last 15 days as night skies in China, South Korea, and other Asian countries are decorated with sky lanterns and fireworks, and streets are brought to life with the performances of dancing dragons and lions.
The 2025 Lunar Year is the Year of the Snake, which will likely be the dominating motif for the next half month of festivities.
The Year of the Snake represents metamorphosis, wisdom, and intuition in Chinese culture. Those born in the Year of the Snake are frequently regarded as resourceful, tenacious, and perceptive. The celebration this year will center on using the snake’s characteristics to overcome obstacles and seize chances for development.
The Lunar New Year holiday is a time for new beginnings, to honor ancestors, treasure loved ones, and express wishes for health, prosperity, and happiness.
The red lanterns and paper cutouts, which adorn walls and doors, represent good fortune, and walls and doors and homes are cleaned to sweep away bad luck.