In brief
The Lunar New Year, a significant cultural event for many across Asia and around the world, has launched with enthusiasm and diverse celebrations this year, emblematic of hope and renewal.
In pictures: Welcoming the Lunar New Year Millions of people around the globe, particularly in Asia, are celebrating the Lunar New Year, which aligns with the first new moon of the lunar calendar. This joyful occasion, heralded as one of the most significant events for many in Asian cultures and communities worldwide, symbolizes a fresh beginning for its celebrants. Fireworks, music, fairs, lanterns, and traditional lion and dragon dances have filled streets, kicking off a celebratory period that typically spans around 15 days. In Beijing, China, performers took to the stage to rejoice for the Year of the Snake, showcasing vibrant displays of culture. Stilt walkers paraded through parks, and candles were lit at Chinese temples in Yangon, Myanmar, while devout attendees prayed at shrines in Bangkok, Thailand. In Indonesia, Christians honored the occasion with prayers at the Hong San Koo Tee temple in Surabaya. Meanwhile, in Malaysia's capital, Kuala Lumpur, worshippers gathered at the Sin Sze Si Ya Taoist temple to celebrate and pray together.The festive spirit carried over to Manila, where dragon dancers weaved through bustling streets accompanied by the sound of firecrackers. Similarly, large candles were lit at the Darma Ramsi Temple in Bandung, West Java, marking the Lunar New Year. In New York's Chinatown, lion dance performers celebrated at the stroke of midnight. Traditional dances also took place at Namsangol Hanok Village in Seoul, South Korea, reflecting the rich cultural heritage associated with the Lunar New Year. In Hanoi, Vietnam, individuals held incense while participating in Tet, the local name for Lunar New Year, reminding all of the significance of this festive time laden with tradition and community spirit.
