Lunar New Year is celebrated in many countries, such as China, Taiwan, Hong Kong, Vietnam, and South Korea, which use the lunisolar calendar, a 354-day year based on the cycles of the Moon. This calendar places the new year between late January and mid-February of the solar Gregorian calendar that is standard in the United States. (See our previous article on Lunar New Year for more information on the holiday and its observance.)
Because many Asian Americans observe the Lunar New Year, there has been considerable support for making it a public school holiday. On September 9, 2023, Governor Kathy Hochul signed legislation officially designating the holiday as such in New York State, contributing to efforts to ensure that nobody will have to choose between celebrating their culture and getting their education.
Lunar New Year is often marked by the animals of the Chinese zodiac. 2024 introduces the Year of the Dragon; traditionally, people born in the Year of the Dragon are optimists and natural leaders, with confidence, charisma, and more than a bit of perfectionism.
2024 will mark the first year of Lunar New Year being a public holiday in New York State. School will not be in session, but you can expect government buildings, transportation, and businesses to be operating on normal hours.
Because it stems from the multiple-day festivals celebrated in several Asian countries, Lunar New Year celebrations in America can continue for several days: check events in your area to see whether roads will be closed for festivities. Especially in New York City, home to major Asian American communities, there are many parades, shows, and other events celebrating Lunar New Year: check some out here.
If you have any questions or concerns, contact us anytime at info@gravityintprog.com. Stay safe and healthy, and Happy New Year!
