- Every year, the sighting of the first new moon in January marks the beginning of Lunar New Year.
- Wednesday marks the first day of the celebrations.
- From fireworks to dragon dances, here’s how people worldwide are welcoming the Year of the Snake.
Every year in late January, streets transform into a sea of red — lights, lanterns, and even little kids dressed in festive hues signal the start of Lunar New Year celebrations.
A traditional lunar calendar helps predict the start of the new year, with celebrations continuing into February.
The holiday follows a 12-year cycle based on Chinese zodiac signs, with each year linked to a different animal. This year welcomes the Year of the Snake, the sixth sign in the zodiac.
Around the world, cities celebrate Lunar New Year in unique ways, blending cultural traditions with contemporary festivities. Some families gather for feasts, exchanging gifts in red envelopes and enjoying symbolic foods like gold ingot dumplings and sweet rice balls, while others take to the streets to enjoy a parade of performances.
Yet, no matter where it’s celebrated, one thing remains constant: a vibrant shade of red.
Here’s how countries around the world kicked off Lunar New Year celebrations this year.
