Chinese New Year welcomes Year of the Rabbit

Today marks the New Year for the Lunar calendar, a celebration observed by many countries including China, Vietnam and Korea. Although known by many in the Western world as “Chinese New Year,” don’t forget to wish your friends from other Asian nations a Happy New Year as well.

Lunar New Year ushers in a new beginning and the celebration can include much of the same thing as those who celebrate Christmas. The celebration includes getting together with family, having a festive meal, and giving gifts. The tradition of giving red envelopes is loved by all, especially the children and young adults receiving them.

Yesterday marked the end of the Tiger. Today marks the start of the Year of the Rabbit. Anyone born in the Year of the Rabbit is said to be serene, articulate, sensitive, talented, lucky and compassionate. Were you born in the Year of the Rabbit? Anyone turning 12, 24, 36, or other multiples of twelve this year are “Rabbits.”

Celebration are happening around San Diego throughout February. One of the largest will take place on February 12th and 13th at 3rd Street and J Street downtown. The festival will feature lion and dragon dancers, martial arts and acrobatics, musicians, and much more. Great food and beautiful crafts will also be sold.

Traditionally the festival lasts until the Lantern Festival, on the first full moon of the year — February 17th this year. For more information on this New Year celebration visit http://sdcny.weebly.com/.