Welcome the Year of the Snake!

 

Chinese New Year, also called the Lunar New Year or Spring Festival, is a cornerstone celebration in Chinese culture. It marks the start of the lunar calendar, which follows the moon's cycles. This vibrant tradition has inspired similar festivities across Asia, including Korea's Seollal, Tibet's Losar, and the Ryukyu New Year in Japan.

Chinese New Year 2025 falls on Wednesday, January 29, 2025, marking the start of the Year of the Earth Snake. The celebration traditionally lasts for 15 days, culminating in the Lantern Festival. Families gather to honor ancestors, enjoy festive meals, and partake in customs that symbolize good fortune, health, and prosperity.

In 2025, expect vibrant dragon and lion dances, temple ceremonies, and fireworks to light up the celebrations, especially in Chinese communities worldwide. Whether in China or abroad, the holiday is a time for reflection, renewal, and reconnecting with loved ones.

Chinese New Year is celebrated in the Philippines largely due to the significant presence of the Chinese-Filipino community and the enduring cultural ties between the two nations. This festive occasion not only acknowledges the vital contributions of the Chinese-Filipino community but also strengthens cultural understanding and unity.

Over the years, Chinese New Year in the Philippines has become a unique blend of Chinese traditions and Filipino customs. Practices such as dragon and lion dances, giving red envelopes (ang pao), and preparing symbolic dishes have been embraced by Filipinos, reflecting shared values of family, prosperity, and community. This celebration serves as a shining example of cultural harmony and mutual respect, showcasing the richness of diversity in Filipino society.

References:

<https://www.twinkl.co.th/event/chinese-new-year-in-the-philippines-2025>