Chinese communities have since celebrated both the start of the Gregorian year on Jan. 1 and then the Lunar New Year, a reflection of cultural roots, some weeks afterward.

The seventh day of the Lunar New Year (February 4, 2025) is said to be when the Chinese mother goddess, Nuwa, created humanity. Thus, it’s called renri/jan jat (the people’s birthday).

The 12-year Chinese zodiac calendar cycle is represented by 12 different animals, in this order: Rat, Ox, Tiger, Rabbit, Dragon, Snake, Horse, Goat, Monkey, Rooster, Dog and Pig.

Text “Alerts” to (201) 335-0739 or sign up here. People take photos and videos of a lion dance during Lunar New Year celebrations at Yamashitacho Park on Jan. 29, 2025.

Chinese New Year celebrations typically last 16 days, but only the first seven days are considered public holidays – from Jan. 29 to Feb. 4. Is Chinese New Year same as Lunar New Year?

What is it? Here’s what to know. When is Lunar New Year? The Chinese New Year will begin on January 29, 2025, according to Parade. This celebration lasts up to 16 days, or until the full moon.

The Lunar New Year usually starts sometime between late January and mid-February. This year, the festivities begin on Wednesday, Jan. 29, 2025, marking the arrival of the Year of the Snake.

Every year, the Lunar New Year marks the transition from one animal to another. The Year of the Dragon, which began on Feb. 10, 2024, ended Tuesday to begin the Year of the Snake.

Lunar New Year — also commonly called Chinese New Year — marks the start of the new year based on lunar calendars, or monthly cycles of the moon's phases. The lunar new year starts with the ...