Yahoo Lifestyle 6 Lunar New Year Traditions for the Year of the Snake
As an Asian-American, the Chinese or Lunar New Year was always a great time of celebration in our family, and we followed many Chinese New Year traditions to secure a prosperous and fortunate year ahead. Here are some things to know about the upcoming Chinese New Year.
Related: When Is Chinese New Year 2025? The History of Chinese New Year, Chinese New Year Traditions
What animal represents the Lunar New Year 2025?
The 2025 lunar year celebrates the Year of the Snake.
When does the 2025 Lunar New Year begin?
The Lunar New Year of the (Wood) Snake begins on Jan 29, 2025.
What traits are shared by those born in the Year of the Snake?
If you were born in the Year of the Snake, (1929, 1941, 1953, 1965, 1977, 1989, 2001, and 2013), people may find you intelligent, wise, and mysterious. They are also said to be determined, caring, and good at talking.
What are the lucky numbers for a Snake?
Lucky numbers for those born in a Snake year are 2, 8, 9, and numbers containing them (like 28 and 89).
What are the lucky colors for a Snake?
Black, red, and yellow are the most auspicious colors for those born in the Year of the Snake.
What Chinese Zodiac animals are most compatible with the Snake?
Those born in the Year of the Rat, Dragon, or Rooster are those most compatible with those born in the Year of the Snake. The least compatible Chinese zodiac signs with Snakes are the Tiger, Rabbit, Goat, and Pig.
What celebrities were born in the Year of the Snake?
Celebrities born in the Year of the Snake include Taylor Swift, Audrey Hepburn and Bob Dylan, among others.
What are some Chinese New Year traditions I can follow?
Follow these Chinese New Year traditions and you practically ensure a wonderful new year!
1. Wear red, not white.
White symbolizes death in the Asian culture so wearing predominantly white is a no-no. Also avoid giving white flowers—instead bring a colorful bouquet. Try to wear a new outfit on New Year’s Day—just not a white one!
Related: 5 Things to Know About the Chinese New Year
2. Forget greeting cards.
Give red envelopes instead! Known in Mandarin as hong bao, red envelopes containing money are often given from elders to children or unwed young adults. Avoid giving amounts ending in four as the word for "four" sounds much like the word for "death" in Mandarin.
3. Don't cut or wash hair on Chinese New Year's Day.
Do these in the week or so leading up to New Year's Day, but don't do it on the day of as you don't want to wash away or cut short your luck! The same goes for knives and scissors—avoid using them.
4. Avoid using a broom.
You should clean your house before and not on the day of, as you don't want to sweep out any good luck. Also, don't take out the trash. Do this before or after new year's day.
5. Open windows.
Blow in the good luck and blow out the bad the days leading up to New Year's Day (unless it's too cold to do so!)
6. Eat traditional food.
Some of the things you should eat during New Year's: Dumplings, noodles, fish and fruit like oranges, tangelos and pomelos. Here are explanations for why some foods are associated with luck and good fortune for Chinese New Year.
— Dumplings symbolize wealth and prosperity as they look like ancient Chinese ingots/money.
— Noodles symbolize longevity and strands should be eaten whole and not bit in half or cut.
— Fish symbolizes a surplus of wealth and prosperity and should be the last savory dish served with a few pieces left to ensure a surplus of wealth and prosperity in the coming year.
— Fruit like oranges and pomelos symbolize fullness and wealth. Some say the more fruit you eat the more wealth will be brought to you.
Related: 15 Hacks to Make Your Life Easier in the New Year
What can I expect in The Year of the Snake?
The Snake is often associated with introspection. It’s a good time for self-examination, shedding old habits, and embracing personal transformation. You may feel a desire to look inward, reassess your goals, and refine your ambitions. It’s a year that encourages you to grow from within and gain wisdom.
Is it a lucky year?
Yes! The Snake is a symbol of cleverness, strategy and planning. In the Year of the Snake, it’s advised to focus on long-term goals rather than rushing into decisions. You may find yourself drawn to more calculated, thoughtful approaches to life, whether it's in your career, relationships, or personal projects.
How do I greet someone during the Lunar New Year?
When greeting someone for Lunar New Year, say "Xing Nyan Kwai Lo!" and "Gong Xi Fa Cai"! Not sure how to say it? Check out the video above.
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