The MPA celebrates Chinese New Year – The Year of the Snake
By charleywaterhouse
Date
Chinese New Year, also known as the Lunar New Year or Spring Festival, is one of the most significant cultural celebrations in the world. In 2025, this vibrant festival falls on Wednesday, 29 January, marking the transition into the Year of the Snake according to the Chinese zodiac.
The Year of the Snake
The Snake is the sixth animal in the 12-year Chinese zodiac cycle, representing wisdom, intuition, and transformation. Those born in the Year of the Snake are often seen as insightful and intelligent, with a knack for problem-solving. In 2025, the element associated with the Snake is wood, which brings an added layer of creativity and growth to the year’s energies.
Whether or not you believe in the zodiac, understanding the meaning behind the Snake can provide insight into the themes of renewal and introspection that guide many of the year’s cultural and personal activities.
Preparation for Chinese New Year begins weeks in advance, with a deep cleaning of homes to sweep away bad luck and make space for good fortune. This period also includes decorating houses with red and gold, colours that symbolise prosperity, happiness, and protection. You’ll often see intricate paper cuttings, couplets with auspicious phrases, and red lanterns adorning homes and streets.
Shopping for the New Year is another major event. People will stock up on food, snacks, and gifts, ensuring they have everything needed to welcome the year in abundance with family, friends and loved ones. One popular tradition is buying new clothes preferably in red which signifies a fresh start.
The Reunion Dinner
The eve of Chinese New Year, Tuesday, January 28 2025, is all about family. Known as the Reunion Dinner, it is a time when loved ones come together to enjoy a feast. Traditional dishes often include dumplings, representing wealth; fish, denoting surplus; and glutinous rice cakes (nian gao), signifying rising prosperity. Every dish is laden with meaning, emphasising blessings for the year ahead.
Customs and Traditions
- Red Envelopes (Hongbao): Adults give red envelopes filled with money to children and unmarried younger relatives, for blessings and good fortune.
- Lion and Dragon Dances: These lively performances are believed to chase away evil spirits and bring good luck, often accompanied by the rhythmic beat of drums and gongs.
- Firecrackers and Fireworks: Lighting firecrackers is a traditional way to scare off the mythical beast Nian and celebrate the start of the new year with a bang.
- Visiting Relatives: During the festival, families visit relatives and friends, bringing along gifts and exchanging well wishes such as “Gong Xi Fa Cai”, meaning “Wishing you prosperity.”
Lantern Festival: The Grand Finale
The Chinese New Year festivities last 15 days, culminating in the Lantern Festival on Saturday, February 15, 2025. During this night, communities come alive with vibrant lantern displays, riddle-solving games, and the sharing of tangyuan (sweet glutinous rice balls), symbolising family togetherness.
How to Celebrate Chinese New Year 2025
Whether you’re in China, part of the global Chinese diaspora, or simply someone who loves cultural festivals, here’s how you can join in the celebrations:
- Host a Reunion Dinner: Gather friends and family to enjoy traditional foods and share stories.
- Decorate Your Home: Add red and gold accents and consider hanging paper cuttings or couplets with positive phrases.
- Participate in Local Events: Many cities worldwide host Chinese New Year parades, complete with lion dances and fireworks.
- Learn About the Zodiac: Discover more about the Snake’s characteristics and reflect on how its symbolism might inspire your year ahead.
https://www.bbc.co.uk/cbbc/joinin/bp-are-you-like-your-chinese-zodiac-animal
https://www.rmg.co.uk/stories/topics/lunar-new-year-dates-animals-zodiac
- Learn the Story Behind the Chinese zodiac Signs
https://www.creativeartsguild.org/images/uploads/categories/12_Chinese_Zodiac_Signs.pdf
Chinese New Year is more than just a celebration; it’s a time for renewal, gratitude, and connection. The Year of the Snake in 2025 offers an opportunity to embrace wisdom, creativity, and growth.
May the Year of the Snake bring you good fortune, health, and happiness!
Resources
Chinese New Year 2025 – When is Chinese Lunar New Year 2025, Date, Calendar, Holiday, Zodiac Sign
Chinese Lunar New Year in London 2025
Where To Celebrate Lunar New Year And Chinese New Year 2025 In London | Londonist
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