A year more to appreciate family, luck, and remembrance of older generations!
The Lunar New Year, also known as the Chinese New Year or the Spring Festival, is one of the most significant and widely celebrated holidays in many East Asian cultures. And while European and American New Year’s traditions are less devoted to the celebration of a new year, the Lunar New Year celebrates good luck, family, and older generations of East Asian families.
According to National Geographic, this year’s Lunar New Year is even more special because it marks the beginning of the Year of the Snake by the Chinese zodiac. The celebration of the Lunar New Year is deeply rooted in traditions and customs that have been passed down through generations. Homes can be decorated with red lanterns, couplets, and paper cutouts, all symbolizing good luck, happiness, and prosperity.
On New Year’s Eve, families gather for a reunion and wait for the clock to strike the beginning of the following year. However, those that celebrate Lunar New Year extend the promise of new beginnings with several days of celebration! Whether it’s eating delicious Asian food to wearing traditional attire, there is a connection to the culture and traditions for those who celebrate this wonderful holiday.
Kevin Zheng, a Chinese American senior at Patchogue Medford High School, shared his Lunar New Year traditions. “After moving to America I was deeply disappointed that I would have to spend Lunar new year in school rather than at home,” shared Zheng regarding his traditional culture growing up.
“But this year with the adjustment of the school calendar I was delighted to finally get a day off where I could dress up in traditional clothing, receive red envelopes, and spend the day surrounded by whole family. Lunar new year for me is just like Christmas to many others, it’s deeply rooted in Asian culture and finally getting the day off to commemorate it makes it even more special.”
The preservation of such a beautiful and unique culture shares a deep connection to family roots, which Zheng clearly expresses. Happy Lunar New Year and may those who celebrate enjoy the next days of celebration and joy!
