The Chinese New Year, also known as the Lunar New Year or Spring Festival, is one of the most celebrated holidays in the world. In 2025, it begins on Saturday, January 29, and marks the start of the Year of the Wood Snake according to the Chinese zodiac.
The Snake is a symbol of wisdom, intuition, and transformation in Chinese culture. It represents mystery, elegance, and a deep connection to the unseen. The Wood element adds qualities of growth, stability, and creativity, making 2025 a year focused on self-discovery, steady progress, and innovative thinking.
This year encourages people to trust their instincts, embrace change, and build foundations for future success. It’s a time for reflection and cultivating inner strength.
Celebrations traditionally last for 15 days and are full of vibrant customs and traditions:
Family Reunions: Loved ones gather to enjoy a reunion dinner on New Year’s Eve, symbolizing togetherness.
Red Decorations: Homes are adorned with red lanterns, couplets, and paper cutouts to invite good luck and ward off bad spirits.
Fireworks: Loud firecrackers and dazzling fireworks display light up the sky, symbolizing the driving away of evil spirits.
Giving Red Envelopes: Known as hongbao, these envelopes filled with money are given to children and young adults as a wish for prosperity.
Dragon and Lion Dances: These traditional performances bring good fortune and joy to communities.
Global Celebrations: Cities around the world, from New York to London, Singapore to Sydney, hold vibrant parades, street festivals, and cultural events to honour the Chinese New Year.
As we step into the Year of the Snake, may wisdom guide your decisions, creativity spark your passions, and resilience lead you to success. May the year bring you and your loved ones health, happiness, and prosperity. Happy New Year to all our Chinese friends and partners!
Happy Chinese New Year! 🐍
新年快乐! (Xīnnián kuàilè)