The Lunar New Year is one of the most significant holidays celebrated in China and other places by a number of Chinese individuals. 

   It is a time when families reunite and celebrate the year to come. 2023 is the year of the Rabbit which symbolizes peace, longevity, and prosperity in Chinese culture. The year of the Rabbit started on Jan. 22 (Chinese New Year) and continues until Feb. 9, 2024. According to China Highlights, 2023 is the year of hope.

   Each year receives a Chinese zodiac sign which is recycled every 12 years. For example, people born in 2023, 2011, 1999, 1987, and so on are Rabbits. They are known to be vigilant, witty, quick-minded, and ingenious according to China Highlights.

   Along with the change in Chinese zodiac signs, the Lunar New Year holds several special traditions that can vary from household to household. On the first day of the holiday, families hold a feast which includes various symbolic dishes. According to the Smithsonian, families will have whole fish which represents abundance and provides good luck and fortune to the family.

Families adorn their homes with red paper cuttings and put couplets on the door. At the end of the holiday, there is a Lantern Festival when children carry lanterns around the town according to the Smithsonian.

   This special holiday has a multitude of different traditions and histories. Learn more about this holiday at https://chinesenewyear.net/.