Cities and villages across Asia are buzzing with anticipation as they welcome the Year of the Snake.
Markets are overflowing with mandarins and red envelopes, while golden decorations shine in the winter sun, and families gather across the continent as they celebrate the Lunar New Year, also known as Chinese New Year.
When is Lunar New Year?
This year, Lunar New Year begins today, Wednesday, Jan. 29, and ends Feb. 12.
What is Lunar New Year?
Lunar New Year, also widely regarded as Chinese New Year since the late 19th century when it gained global recognition through Chinese immigrant communities, is a centuries-old tradition rooted in the lunar calendar.
Celebrated across Asia and beyond, it marks the start of a new year based on the cycles of the moon rather than the Gregorian calendar, when the majority of the United States and much of Western civilization celebrate the new year.
It always aligns with the first new moon of the lunar calendar, marking the beginning of a new lunar cycle and ending on the first full moon.
What does the Year of the Snake mean?
The Year of the Snake is the sixth animal in the Chinese zodiac cycle and is traditionally associated with traits like wisdom, intuition and charm. People born in the Year of the Snake are believed to be perceptive, intelligent and graceful.
In Chinese culture, the snake is often linked to the element of fire, which signifies passion, energy and transformation. The year itself is considered a time for reflection, deep thought and personal growth.
For people born under the sign of the Snake, there are three signs that are considered their “enemies”: the Tiger, Monkey and Pig, according to South China Morning Post. That doesn’t necessarily mean they will experience bad luck.
Which signs will see good luck?
In the Year of the Snake, several zodiac signs are believed to have a favorable outlook, with some even seeing good luck or prosperity. These include:
- Rooster: The Rooster and Snake are considered a harmonious pairing. Both share traits of precision, intelligence and a keen attention to detail. Roosters can benefit from the Snake’s wisdom and strategic thinking, making it a year of success in business and personal matters.
- Ox: As mentioned earlier, the Ox and Snake are compatible. The Ox’s steady, hardworking nature complements the Snake’s wisdom and calculated approach, helping the Ox achieve long-term goals and see steady progress. It’s a great year for growth and stability.
- Dragon: The Snake and Dragon are also seen as a strong match. Both are charismatic and powerful, with the Snake’s strategic nature and the Dragon’s boldness creating opportunities for success and prosperity. Dragons may find that their natural confidence and ambition are well-supported during this year.
- Monkey: Despite their odds with each other, the monkey is actually believed to receive a double dose of luck in the Year of the Snake.
The Snake is also, of course, lucky in its own year.
How to find your Chinese Zodiac sign
Each zodiac animal’s year comes around every 12 years. The list, in order:
- Rat
- Ox
- Tiger
- Rabbit
- Dragon
- Snake
- Horse
- Goat
- Monkey
- Rooster
- Dog
- Pig
