Communities across Asia and around the globe rang in the Year of the Snake on January 29, 2025, with vibrant celebrations heralding the Lunar New Year. From solemn rituals at temples to bursting parades filled with music and dance, the festivities marked the start of this significant date on the lunar calendar.
At the Wong Tai Sin Temple in Hong Kong, hundreds of worshippers lined up before midnight, hoping to be among the first to place their incense sticks at the temple's main hall. The tradition, passed down through generations, is believed to amplify the power of their prayers for good fortune and prosperity. "I pray for world peace, jobs for everyone and good health to everyone," said celebrity Lana Wong as she participated in the rituals, wearing two stuffed toy snakes around her neck to symbolize her fervent hopes for the new year.
The atmosphere at the Wong Tai Sin Temple was filled with anticipation as worshippers arrived, the scent of burning incense wafting through the air. Many bowed deeply several times before sticking their lit incense sticks—which symbolize prayers—into elaborate gold-colored pots. Similar scenes unfolded at the Lama Temple in Beijing, where worshippers like Niu Qingshan joined multitudes seeking to shed the misfortune and illness from the past year. "We want to get rid of all the bad things and physical diseases from the past year and embrace the start of the new year," Niu shared, reflecting the common sentiment among many.
The Lunar New Year celebrations, also known as the Spring Festival, Tet, or Seollal, brought together not just devotees of Buddhism and Taoism but also families and communities to engage with their heritage. Traditionally, the Year of the Snake is one of the twelve animals of the Chinese zodiac, recognized for its association with wisdom, intuition, and adaptability. Amidst the prayers and ceremonial traditions, cities came to life with colorful displays.
Beijing's Ditan Park was transformed during the temple fair, filled with countless visitors eager to partake in lion dance performances and enjoy local snacks. The event, which marks the first day of the Lunar New Year, saw families gathering to celebrate together, with each performance watched intently as onlookers immersed themselves in the rich cultural heritage on display.
Across the world, similar celebratory atmospheres were experienced. Ethnic Chinese communities gathered in cities like Moscow and Havana, where festive parades featured colorful dragons, drumming, and lively dance, uplifting spirits among celebrants. "Happy New Year!" rang out among the joyous crowds, highlighting the global nature of the celebrations as food stalls opened, allowing visitors to savor the flavors of traditional Chinese cuisine.
Yet, even amid celebrations, caution was expressed about what the Year of the Snake might bring. Some hold the view, as articulated by David Lei, board member of the Chinese Historical Society of America, "The snake is a less desirable year." This sentiment reflects broader cultural beliefs around the zodiac's role; many view the Year of the Snake as symbolic of misfortune. The unfavorable perception has led to hesitations among some couples contemplating marriage or starting families this year. "Sometimes snakes are just scary," admitted Lei, poking fun at the deep-seated beliefs shaped by the creature's cultural associations.
Contrastingly, Mario Poceski, Professor of Chinese Religious History and Culture, pointed out the variability of beliefs about the zodiac across AAPI communities. "Some people are hardcore. Some just think it’s a fun thing to do," he explained, noting how cultural beliefs can blend with modern sensibilities, reflecting the diverse attitudes within Asian American-Pacific Islander communities.
Nevertheless, the Year of the Snake is also seen as a time for transformation and renewal. Despite any apprehension, there is optimism surrounding the new year among shop owners and community members alike. At shops like the San Francisco-based gift store, customers lively browsed the unique array of red envelopes and lion dance costumes, captivated by the traditional symbols of luck and prosperity.
Even with the reputation of the snake as less desirable, some embrace the outlook for reflection and growth this year, with positive associations coming to light. The connections individuals make during this time reflect not just personal aspirations but also cherished traditions as families come together to celebrate.
While retailers might have noticed the hesitance to stock snake-themed items, many still hold hope for what the snake will usher forth. Red remains the color of luck and wealth, and Taiwanese traditions included prayers for prosperity at places like Guandi Temple. "Why take chances?" noted David Lei's wife, Linda, demonstrating trust and belief in cultural practices to counter any perceived adversities.
The Lunar New Year is not merely about good wishes; it encapsulates the desire for renewal and hope for all. Communities worldwide engaged fervently as families gathered around the dinner table sharing abundant feasts—symbolizing unity and familial bonds reinforced during the symbolic time of the new year. With the celebrations drawing renewed attention, it is a moment steeped in reflection and hope for what lies ahead amid the pop and crackle of fireworks lining the night sky.
With the Year of the Snake officially beginning, Asia and diasporas around the world bid farewell to the Year of the Dragon, stepping forward united, embracing the rich cultural heritage and hopes for what the future will bring.