The 2023 Lunar New Year will begin on January 22 and will mark the Year of the Rabbit until the 15th day signaling the end with the Lantern Festival.
The Lunar New Year is a major holiday in East and Southeast Asian cultures, such as China, Taiwan, Vietnam, Singapore, Korea, and many others. It is a time for families to gather, exchange gifts, and celebrate with traditional foods and customs.
The Year of the Rabbit is the fourth animal in the 12-year zodiac cycle. People born in the Year of the Rabbit are believed to be peaceful, kind-hearted, and well-mannered. They are also said to be clever, articulate and have good taste. The sign of Rabbit is a symbol of longevity, peace, and prosperity. 2023 is predicted to be a year of hope.
One of the most important customs during the Lunar New Year is the reunion dinner, which is held on New Year's Eve. Families gather around the dinner table to enjoy a feast of traditional foods such as dumplings, fish, and glutinous rice cakes. Red envelopes filled with money, called "hongbao," are also commonly given as gifts to children and unmarried adults.
Another important tradition is the decoration of homes and streets with red lanterns and banners. Red is a lucky color in Asian culture and is believed to ward off evil spirits. People also burn incense and set off fireworks to celebrate the new year.
In conclusion, the Year of the Rabbit is a year of harmony and success. It is a time for families to come together and celebrate with traditional customs, food, and gifts. This year is expected to bring balance and stability to all aspects of life.
Take Action:
- Asian Pacific American Student Services (APASS) Lunar New Year Celebration will includeances by Gia Đình Phật Tử Nguyên Thièu and Colorado Asian Culture Heritage
Center.
- Saturday, January 21, 2:00pm at University Center Ballrooms
- Read more about the Rituals and Legends of the Lunar New Year
- The Lunar New Year event in Pokemon GO looks promising and we’re all but excited.
- Be mindful of how to pronounce names that may not come naturally to you. Links embedded in this section serve as tools you can use to address people by their accurate name pronunciation and thereby promoting a sense of belonging and inclusion for all.
- Attach the 2023 Lunar New Year Day design elements to your email signature and/or use it in your social media
For additional education and personal development related to diversity, equity and inclusion, the following resources are available: DEI Education and Resources, DEI & Antiracism Resources from the UNC Libraries, the Education Equity Toolkit from the Colorado Department of Higher Education, and the UNITE workshops for faculty, staff, and students.
