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Welcome, Year of the Snake

The Year of the Snake begins with the New Moon on January 29, 2025. Millions of people traditionally celebrate this lunisolar event.

Illustration of a yellow snake winding around a tree branch with blossoming flowers and an Asian style lantern.

Shedding the old, welcoming the new: The Snake leads 2025 as a year of transformation.

© timeanddate.com

The Lunar New Year 2025, also known as Chinese New Year or the Spring Festival, starts on January 29, aligning with the first New Moon of the lunisolar calendar.

This widely celebrated event welcomes the Year of the Snake, the sixth sign in the Chinese zodiac, symbolizing wisdom, transformation, and intuition.

A Time of Renewal and Optimism

Rooted in centuries-old traditions, Lunar New Year celebrations span across China, Korea, Vietnam, and many other countries, as well as global Asian communities. Families reunite, share special meals, and participate in rituals designed to attract good fortune. These include decorating with red, giving “lucky money” in red envelopes, and watching dragon or lion dances.

Picture of a typical long dragon float for the Chinese New Year.

Lunar New Year is a festive occasion that calls for celebration in many places around the world.

©bigstockphoto.com/ Diane Robertson

This year’s festivities are expected to highlight the transformative qualities associated with the Snake, encouraging individuals to embrace growth and strategic planning. Whether celebrated with large family gatherings or smaller, symbolic acts, Lunar New Year remains a time of renewal and optimism for millions worldwide. The snake is regarded as a symbol of change and renewal in that it sheds its skin to grow.

Always Aligns with the New Moon

Lunar New Year always aligns with a New Moon. Because the lunar calendar doesn’t match up perfectly with the solar calendar, the Gregorian calendar date shifts annually.

The Lunar New Year begins on the second New Moon after the Northern Hemisphere winter solstice, which is around December 21. This rule ensures that Lunar New Year typically falls between January 21 and February 20.