As the world welcomes the new energy of the Year of the Snake, vibrant celebrations and rituals are taking place across countries, uniting nearly 2 billion people in a shared experience of reflection, renewal, and new beginnings.
The world is coming together to bid farewell to the Dragon and welcome the new energy of the Year of the Snake.
This all-encompassing celebration spans across countries, with nearly 2 billion participants dancing, eating, and gathering to uphold traditions that focus on welcoming a new year with their best foot forward.
The Year of the Snake is the sixth year in the 12-year cycle of the Chinese zodiac.
People born during this year are believed to possess qualities such as cunning, adaptability, and resilience.
According to legend, the 'snake' represents renewal and transformation.
In Chinese culture, the 'snake' is also associated with good fortune and prosperity.
The Year of the Snake occurs every 12 years, with the most recent occurrence in 2013.
Families around the world carry out various ‘rituals’ to guarantee good luck, good fortune, and prosperity.
These include cleaning their homes, cutting their hair, and indulging in delicious food.
For many, it’s also a time to reflect on loved ones they have lost and set intentions for the future.
The festivities are kicking off with vibrant performances, ‘dragon dances,’ fire breathers, and even snakes!
Here are some glimpses of the celebrations from around the world:
The lion dance is a traditional Chinese dance that originated in the Southern province of Canton.
It is believed to have been introduced during the Han Dynasty (206 BCE - 220 CE).
The dance is performed to bring good luck, fortune, and prosperity.
It is typically performed during Chinese New Year celebrations and other significant festivals.
According to legend, the lion's movements are said to mimic a lion's agility and power, symbolizing strength and courage.
The dragon dance is a traditional 'Chinese performance that originated over 2,000 years ago.' It involves a group of dancers manipulating long poles with dragon heads attached, mimicking the movements of a dragon. The dance is typically performed during festivals and celebrations, such as the 'Chinese New Year,' to bring good luck and prosperity. According to legend, the dragon represents power, strength, and good fortune. During performances, the dragons are often adorned with colorful fabrics and decorations.
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Bangkok, Thailand: Lion Dance performances worship Chinese deities during the Chinese Lunar New Year celebration at a shopping mall.
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Manila, Philippines: A performer breathes fire during Lunar New Year celebrations in Binondo district, considered the world’s oldest Chinatown.
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Keelung, Taiwan: People light candles on the first day of the Lunar New Year of the Snake at a temple.
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Magelang, Central Java, Indonesia: Performers entertain tourists on the first day of the Lunar New Year of the Snake at Borobudur Temple, a UNESCO World Heritage Site and the largest Buddhist temple in Indonesia.
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Keelung, Taiwan: People offer prayers on the first day of the Lunar New Year of the Snake at a temple.
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Yokohama, Japan: A lion dance is performed in front of a restaurant in Yokohama China Town.
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Bangkok, Thailand: A snake plushie hangs from a hook at a street stall on Lunar New Years Eve.
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Kolkata, India: The Chinese community performs a Dragon dance as part of the celebration of the Chinese Lunar Year.
As the world comes together to celebrate the Year of the Snake, it’s a time for reflection, renewal, and new beginnings.
