Lunar New Year Around the World By Amanda Li

The Lunar New Year, often called Chinese New Year or the Spring Festival, is one of the most significant cultural celebrations in the world. While its origins are rooted in Chinese tradition, this vibrant festival is observed by many countries and cultures, each adding their unique flair.

In China, the festival marks the start of the lunar calendar and spans 15 days. Festivities include family reunions, feasts, and the exchange of red envelopes containing money for good luck. The streets come alive with dragon and lion dances, fireworks, and lantern displays.

Vietnam celebrates it as Tết, a time to honor ancestors and welcome the arrival of spring. Families clean their homes to sweep away bad luck and prepare traditional dishes like bánh chưng, a savory rice cake. In Korea, Seollal is observed with rituals like charye, ancestral rites, and sebae, where younger family members bow to elders for blessings.

Even outside Asia, Lunar New Year has become a global phenomenon. Cities like Sydney, San Francisco, and London host parades and cultural events that showcase traditional music, dance, and cuisine. These celebrations provide an opportunity for communities to connect and share their heritage with the world.

At its heart, Lunar New Year symbolizes renewal, prosperity, and unity. No matter where or how it is celebrated, it serves as a reminder of the timeless bonds between family, culture, and tradition.

Happy Lunar New Year!