Lunar New Year: Meaning, Date, Traditions & Global Significance

• Recently, Moscow celebrated Lunar New Year with great enthusiasm.
• Panda-themed performances, traditional dances, red lantern decorations, and Chinese cultural showcases gave the festival an international flavor. 
• This reflects how Lunar New Year is no longer limited to Asia—it has become a global celebration.

What is Lunar New Year ?

Lunar New Year marks the beginning of a new year based on the lunisolar calendar (a calendar based on both the moon’s cycles and the sun’s position).

• The calendar was developed in ancient China.
• It is still traditionally used in several Asian countries.
• In Western countries, it is often called Chinese New Year, but the celebration is not limited to China alone.

When is it Celebrated ?

• Lunar New Year begins on the first New Moon of the lunar calendar.
• The date changes every year.
• It usually falls between January 21 and February 20.

Since the lunar calendar follows the moon’s cycles, its dates differ from the Gregorian (Western) calendar.

How Does the Lunar Calendar Work ?

• It consists of 12 lunar months.
• Each month is about 29.5 days long (one full moon cycle).
• 12 lunar months equal approximately 354 days.
• A solar year is about 365 days.

To balance this difference, an extra (leap) month is occasionally added to keep the calendar aligned with the seasons.

Countries That Celebrate Lunar New Year

Lunar New Year is celebrated across many Asian countries under different names:

• China – Chinese New Year
• Vietnam – Tet (Tet)
• South Korea – Seollal

It is also widely celebrated in:

• Singapore
• Malaysia

Each country has its own unique customs and traditions.

Major Traditions & Customs

• Giving red envelopes (Hongbao) with money
• Decorating homes with red lanterns
• Dragon and Lion dances
• Fireworks
• Special family reunion meals
• The color red symbolizes good luck and prosperity

Lunar New Year in Moscow

Recent celebrations in Moscow included:

• Panda-themed cultural programs
• Traditional Chinese dance performances
• Art exhibitions
• Food festivals

These events also highlighted cultural ties between Russia and China.

Global Importance

Today, Lunar New Year:

• Represents cultural diversity
• Celebrates family and tradition
• Has become a worldwide festival