Welcome to the Year of the Rabbit. Today is one of the biggest holidays of the Chinese culture, the Chinese New Year! The exact date varies from year to year, because it is determined from a lunisolar calendar. Traditionally, this celebration lasts for 15 days, completing an entire lunar cycle by beginning and ending with a full moon. Many festivities occur on this customary holiday, such as luxurious feasts and gift exchanges.

“My favorite part of the Chinese New Year is eating, at my house we have lots of food,” said sophomore Constance Chiu. Dumplings are a typical dish served during this time, to represent good fortune.

Another traditional custom of this holiday, is the presentation of red envelopes to the children of the households. Parents fill these envelopes with money, to symbolize hope for the prosperous year to come. One of the most important aspects of this holiday is family reunion and celebration, especially the remembrance of ancestors through religious ceremonies, according to www.theholidayspot.com.

As the celebration wraps up on 15th day, there is a unique gathering called the Festival of Lanterns. During this festival many of the Chinese light lanterns on the streets in order to get the year off to a good start.

Below are pictures from the Chinese New Year luncheon held today for the teachers.

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Photos by Na He Jeon