Lunar New Year is celebrated annually by millions of people in several different countries, such as China, Hong Kong, Vietnam, South Korea, and Taiwan. It marks the beginning of a new year in the lunisolar calendar: a fresh start and a cause for celebration! This year, Lunar New Year falls on Wednesday, January 29. Check out our previous articles on the holiday for more information about its history and its importance in many Asian American communities.
In several cultures, each year is assigned one of the twelve animals of the Chinese Zodiac. Similarly to the Western Zodiac signs, the Zodiac animal of one’s birth year is believed to determine the strengths, weaknesses, desires, compatibility with others, and other aspects of one’s personality. For instance, 2025 is a Year of the Snake. People born in such years are said to be intelligent and charming, even if their quiet and reserved natures don’t make that obvious at first.
Lunar New Year is not a federal holiday, but there are several states that have declared it a public holiday or are making progress towards doing so. New York is among them: in September 2023, Lunar New Year was declared a state holiday, so New York residents can expect schools to be closed on January 29. Because the 2024 holiday fell on a Saturday, 2025 is the first year in which New York students will get the day off for Lunar New Year.
Observers may also take some time off of work for the holiday to spend time with their loved ones and participate in cultural or community events, so employers should be prepared to make accommodations.
If you have any questions or concerns, always feel free to contact us at info@gravityintprog.com. Stay safe and healthy, and Happy New Year!
