Lunar New Year 2022: Ushering in the Year of the Tiger

Originally called Chinese New Year, the Lunar New Year is an important cultural event in many Eastern and Southeastern Asian cultures, celebrating the optimism of the coming year while honoring the past. Unlike New Year’s Day in the Gregorian Calendar used globally today, the Lunar New Year is a multi-day event and does not fall on the same day each year. While the exact date varies based on the lunar calendar, it always occurs near the beginning of the Spring season and is also called the Spring Festival.

This year, the first day of the Lunar New Year is Tuesday, February 1 and the celebration lasts about two weeks.

Some Background on the Tradition…

The Chinese lunisolar calendar is directly tied to their 12 zodiac symbols and the five elements of wood, fire, earth, metal, and water. The resulting configurations create a unique cycle that repeats every 60 years.

This Lunar New Year will usher in the Year of the Tiger. According to Forbes, the Tiger is one of the most beloved of the 12 Chinese Zodiac signs, signifying fortune and confidence.

Some customs and traditions associated with Lunar New Year

Celebrate the Year of the Tiger

• The Smithsonian American Art Museum (SAAM) will host a virtual Lunar New Year Celebration on February 5. Tickets are free, though advance registration is required.

• SAAM also has free Family Zone activities to celebrate the Lunar New Year, with crafts, coloring pages featuring SAAM artwork, and live virtual programs and videos. 

• Learn about Lunar New Year celebrations in Korea (Seollal), Tibet (Losar), and Vietnam (Tet).

This article was compiled from various sources.

Gung Hay Fat Choy – Happy New Year! – שנה טובה

Humbly submitted for your consumption,

—Mee Magnum  (“Chop!  Chop!”)

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