Don’t sweat it if you have noticed everything turning red recently; it’s not by chance. It is the Lunar New Year, starting on January 29, 2025. This worldwide celebration honours the Year of the Snake. So, here is everything you ought to know about the 15-day festival that runs from fiery rituals to splendid events.
Why Is It the Year of the Snake?
Represented by an animal each year, the Chinese zodiac follows a 12-year cycle. This year, it’s the snake’s turn! Babies born in 2025 will be members of this zodiac sign, Snake, known for character traits such as wisdom and curiosity.
Annual predictions based on star positions also belong to zodiac signs. Many people visit temples during the Lunar New Year, seeking blessings and their star forecast. Temple visits are also considered good to resolve conflicts and bring blessings in the coming months.
Red, Firecrackers and the Tale of Nian
Why does Lunar New Year shine so brightly with red decorations and firecrackers? It all goes back to the legend of Nian, a fearsome beast.
According to the story, Nian terrorised a village until a wise old man scared it away using red banners, firecrackers and red clothes. To this day, people hang red decorations and light fireworks to protect their homes and bring good luck.
Prepping for the Big Day
Lunar New Year isn’t just about fun; it involves serious prep work. About a week before, families start cleaning their homes to sweep away bad luck. However, they avoid cleaning during the first five days of the new year to prevent washing away good fortune.
On January 23, people make festive cakes and puddings, known as ‘gao‘ or ‘gou‘. These treats symbolize growth and prosperity for the year ahead. Meanwhile, homes are decorated with red banners, featuring auspicious phrases to welcome luck and scare away Nian.
Lunar New Year’s Eve: The Feast
January 28, 2025, is all about food and family. Families gather for a reunion dinner featuring lucky dishes. Fish symbolises surplus, dumplings resemble gold ingots and puddings promise advancement.
In Southeast Asia, the meal often includes the ‘prosperity toss,‘ a dish of raw fish and vegetables. Diners toss it high with chopsticks, shouting wishes for the year. The messier the toss, the better the luck!
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Lunar New Year’s Day: Gifts and Visits
The first few days test your social stamina. Families visit relatives and friends, bringing fruits and gifts. In return, they enjoy Lunar New Year treats and warm conversations.
Married people give red envelopes filled with money to children and unmarried relatives. These envelopes, called ‘hongbao‘ or ‘lai see’ symbolise protection from evil spirits and blessings for the future.
Day 3: Temple Time
January 31, 2025, is “Red Mouth Day,” believed to bring arguments. To avoid conflict, many people visit temples instead. There, they make offerings and pray for peace and harmony in the coming year.
Day 7: Everyone’s Birthday
February 4, 2025, is known as “Renri,” or the people’s birthday. It honours the day the goddess Nuwa created humanity.
Different regions celebrate with special dishes. In Malaysia and Singapore, the prosperity toss makes another appearance, while Cantonese communities enjoy dishes made with seven types of vegetables.
Day 15: The Lantern Festival
The Lunar New Year ends with a bang on February 12, 2025, during the Lantern Festival. Cities worldwide host lantern displays and fairs to mark the first full moon of the year.
In ancient times, this day was like Valentine’s Day. It was the one night young girls could go out, admire lanterns and meet boys. Today, it’s all about family, hope and welcoming spring with joy and light.
The Lunar New Year is more than a holiday; it’s a vibrant mix of traditions, stories and culture. Whether you’re enjoying festive foods, tossing prosperity salads, or admiring glowing lanterns, the Year of the Snake promises renewal and hope. So, if you’re someone celebrating, put on something red, share a meal and welcome the year with open arms!
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