By Rainie (mom) and Kai and Boden (Magnolia)
Lunar New Year—also called Spring Festival—is the biggest holiday in many Chinese
communities. It lasts 15 days and is full of family, food, and fun! The date is different every year
because it follows the traditional lunar calendar, which is based on the moon.
Many other Asian communities celebrate it too, including Korea, Vietnam, Singapore, and more.
While traditions may be a little different, everyone celebrates with family gatherings, special
foods, and wishes for good luck.
The most exciting time is right at the beginning. Families gather for a big reunion dinner on New
Year’s Eve, then visit relatives and share happy wishes on the first day. Imagine Thanksgiving,
Christmas, and New Year all rolled into one!
Instead of lots of wrapped presents, children often receive bright red envelopes called hóngbāo
with money inside. Red means good luck and happiness, so people wear red clothes and decorate
with red to scare away bad luck.
There are 12 zodiac animals, and each year is named after one. Only one animal is mythical—the
dragon. In some cultures, dragons are scary monsters. But in Chinese culture, the dragon is
powerful and protective. It is a symbol of strength and good fortune.
2026 is the Year of the Horse. Horses stand for energy, confidence, and big adventures. What
animal was the year you were born?
This year, our family celebrated by enjoying traditional Peking duck, lighting Chinese crackers,
and watching the Winter Olympics together. We also FaceTimed our family in China—they are
12 hours ahead of us—so we could celebrate at the same time, even from far away!
