Chinese new year 2025: Millions around the world celebrate Lunar New Year—The Hindu
BEIJING — Firecrackers exploded, incense filled the air, and lion dancers moved to the beat of drums as millions celebrated Lunar New Year on Wednesday, January 29, 2025. The festival, also called the Spring Festival in China, Tet in Vietnam, and Seollal in Korea, welcomed the Year of the Snake with joy and tradition.
In Beijing, crowds gathered at temple fairs despite the cold weather. People rang bells for good luck, tossed coins into golden containers, and enjoyed traditional snacks. Many took photos with a performer dressed as the God of Wealth, a symbol of prosperity. The festival is a time for families to reunite, wish for happiness, and pray for success in the coming year.
Jiang Hecang, a Beijing resident, shared his hopes for the new year. “Last year was very busy because I had to manage both work and my child. In the Year of the Snake, I hope my child grows strong and my job stays stable. That will make me happy,” he said.
In Malaysia, firecrackers crackled outside the Guan Di Temple in Kuala Lumpur. Lion dancers performed to the rhythm of drums and cymbals. Inside the temple, worshippers held incense sticks, bowed several times, and placed them in golden pots, as smoke swirled upward.
In Hong Kong, hundreds of people lined up outside Wong Tai Sin Temple on New Year’s Eve, eager to place incense sticks inside before midnight. Ming So, a regular visitor, shared his wishes. “I pray for my family’s blessings, a successful business, and peace for my country. I hope this year is better than the last.”
Google joined the celebrations by featuring the classic snake game on its homepage. In China, Lunar New Year also marks the world’s largest human migration, as millions travel home for family gatherings. The streets of Beijing became quiet, with closed shops and empty subways. Families enjoyed reunion dinners on New Year’s Eve before heading to temples and fairs on New Year’s Day.
Wang Xinxin, who visited Ditan Park’s temple fair, brought her children to experience the holiday spirit. “New Year celebrations in Beijing are not like before. I want my children to see the traditions that are fading away,” she said.
In recent years, the Chinese government has restricted unofficial celebrations, banning firecrackers in major cities. Many people now travel during the holiday. According to Ctrip, a travel agency, popular destinations this year include Japan, Thailand, Hong Kong, Malaysia, and Singapore.
Moscow hosted a colorful Lunar New Year parade, where Russians cheered as dancers performed with dragon and snake figures. Visitors enjoyed Chinese food and cultural performances. The celebrations reflect the growing ties between China and Russia in recent years.
In Havana, Cuba, glowing lanterns and dragon parades filled the streets of Chinatown. A performer in a lion costume danced through the crowd, playfully scaring a young girl. The small Chinese community in Cuba celebrated with music, performances, and traditional food.
Across the world, people welcomed the Year of the Snake with joy, prayers, and traditions, hoping for a prosperous year ahead.
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