Photo credit: James Foo

It’s almost time to usher in the spring (wild statement as we just had a huge winter storm in New England, we know). Lunar New Year is a time where families gather and celebrate with their loved ones from all over the world; countries who celebrate this holiday include China, Korea, Vietnam and more (National Museum of Asian Art). This year’s Lunar New Year will welcome the Year of the Fire Horse and symbolize rebirth, breaking old habits and tackling it all with bold action.

When is Lunar New Year? The celebrations kick off on February 17 and span over fifteen-days in alignment with the lunisolar calendar. This calendar, based on historic Chinese origin, is a mix of solar, lunar and other cycles The marked occasion is the second new moon after the winter solstice in the previous year (Lam Museum of Anthropology).

What is the significance of Lunar New Year? This is a time for families to come together from far and wide to wish for luck and prosperity while also honoring their ancestors. Some homes may have altars for passed loved ones with offerings of food, gifts and more.

What are some Lunar New Year traditions? In order to enjoy a year full of good luck and prosperity, there are a few dos and don’ts to consider. Some ways to introduce good fortune into the new year is by wearing red, having a delicious feast and more. Avoid cutting your hair around this time, sweeping the home and breaking items in the home, among many other things (CNN). 

Where to celebrate? Most importantly, Lunar New Year is a time to celebrate with others! There are many activities happening in and around the Boston area for you to check out and enjoy. This is a great opportunity to learn new traditions if you are new to the holiday, or want to continue keeping the celebrations going outside of your home. Check out 10 events we’re keeping an eye out for below:

• January 31-February 1: Winter Tết Market.

• February 11-16: One of our favorite neighborhood pop-ups, the Chinatown Main Street Flower Market, is back! Perfect for your celebration needs, you can purchase fresh flowers, decorations, red envelopes and more from February 11-16 at the China Trade Center.

• Saturday, February 14: Lucky Knot Arts Lunar New Year Festival + Market. 

• Thursday, February 19: The Museum of Fine Arts will host their annual celebration on February 19. This is an opportunity to explore art from Chinese, Korean and Vietnamese art to celebrate the Year of the Horse. More details here (tickets required). 

• Thursday, February 19: Bow Market LNY Night Market. 

• Sunday, February 22: North Shore AAPI Coalition Lunar New Year Celebration.

• Saturday, February 28: AAPI 5K Lunar New Year Run.

• Saturday, February 28: Boston Korean Adoptees Seollal Lunar New Year Celebration.

• Sunday, March 1: Pao Arts Center (99 Albany St, Boston, MA 02111) will be hosting their annual Lunar New Year Celebration on Sunday, March 1 starting at 11AM. Come out for an afternoon of art and interactive workshops. Speaking of…we will be having a space at the event, so come say hello and engage in a craft with us! 

• Sunday, March 1: The Boston Chinatown community will be honoring the holiday with a parade on March 1 at 10:30AM starting at Philips Square. There will be plenty of food for purchase, lion dances, firecrackers and more. Make a day out of it by visiting Pao Arts Center after the parade.

Other ways to celebrate: Another simple way you can celebrate Lunar New Year? Support local Asian businesses in Boston Chinatown and beyond! Check out this article for a few businesses to dine at or do a take-out order and enjoy it at home.

Do you celebrate this holiday? Comment below or send us a message on Instagram.