The Year of the Snake is Underway with Lunar New Year Festivities Around the World
The Lunar New Year, also known as the Spring Festival in China, Tet in Vietnam, and Seollal in Korea, has begun, marking the start of the Year of the Snake. The holiday is celebrated by millions around the world, with festivities ranging from temple fairs to dragon dances and family gatherings.
Temple Fairs and Traditional Celebrations
In Beijing, throngs of people filled a park to attend a "temple fair," where they rang bells, tossed coins into containers, and took photos with a person dressed as the God of Wealth. The event is a time to wish for good luck and prosperity in the coming year. "The past year was a very busy one for me, because I had to take care of both my kid and my work," said Beijing resident Jiang Hecang. "In the Year of the Snake, I wish my kid will grow healthily and my work can remain stable. Then I can be happy enough."
In Malaysia, the crackling of firecrackers greeted the new year outside Guan Di temple in Kuala Lumpur, followed by lion dances and drum performances. Ethnic Chinese held incense sticks in front of them and bowed several times inside the temple before sticking the incense into gold-colored pots, releasing the smoke to bring good fortune.
Global Celebrations
The Lunar New Year is celebrated in many countries, including Russia, where a 10-day festival kicked off with a colorful procession featuring drummers, costumed dancers, and long dragon and snake figures. In Moscow, Russians cheered and took photos, expressing delight at experiencing Chinese culture and food.
In Cuba, the small Chinese community celebrated with a parade of glowing lanterns and dragons through the narrow streets of Chinatown. The island’s Chinese community, once one of the largest in the Americas, now blends traditional Chinese cuisine with Cuban culture.
Travel and Traditions
The extended holiday allows many Chinese to travel, with popular destinations including Japan, Thailand, Hong Kong, Malaysia, Singapore, Australia, the United States, South Korea, Macao, and Vietnam. In China, the government has curtailed non-official celebrations, with major cities outlawing noisy firecrackers that once filled the air.
Conclusion
The Year of the Snake is a time for renewal and good fortune, with celebrations ranging from temple fairs to family gatherings and cultural events. As the holiday unfolds, millions around the world will come together to mark the start of a new year, filled with hope and promise.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: What is the Lunar New Year?
A: The Lunar New Year is a traditional holiday celebrated by many countries, including China, Vietnam, Korea, and others, marking the start of a new year on the lunar calendar.
Q: What is the significance of the Year of the Snake?
A: The Year of the Snake is one of 12 animals in the Chinese zodiac, symbolizing good luck, prosperity, and transformation.
Q: How is the Lunar New Year celebrated?
A: Celebrations vary by country and culture, but often include traditional activities such as temple fairs, dragon dances, family gatherings, and cultural events.
